Not knowing, emancipatory catastrophism and metamorphosis

Embracing the spirit of Ulrich Beck

Dados Bibliográficos

ID5802038
AutoresGabe Mythen (0000-0002-6528-9031, University of Liverpool, autor correspondente), Sandra Walklate (0000-0002-1628-9713, University of Liverpool)
Ano2016
Volume47
Fascículo5
Páginas403-419
Data de publicação2016-08-13
Peer ReviewedSim
Open AccessSim
TipoARTICLE
PeriódicoSecurity Dialogue (JOURNAL)
Identificadores do periódicoISSN: 0967-0106 • E-ISSN: 1460-3640
EditoraSAGE Publishing (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/0967010616651027
OpenAlexW2516470082
IdiomaEN
Citações recebidas8
Referências citadas34

Embracing the spirit of his observation that 'what was ruled out beforehand as inconceivable is taking place', this article urges a re-engagement with Ulrich Beck's work within security studies. In so doing, the article falls into three parts. First, we provide necessary contextual orientation, discussing the magnitude of Beck's contribution to understandings of risk and security in the social sciences. Second, we discuss the importance of comprehending Beck's unique methodological approach in order to appreciate the more specific resonances of his work. Third, we endorse the theoretical novelty of Beck's work, demonstrating the ways in which the tools that he devised might be put to use and extended in future. To this end, we focus on three interconnected conceptual devices developed by Beck in the latter stages of his career: nichtwissen, emancipatory catastrophism and metamorphosis. We conclude by emphasizing the vital need to grasp the practical as well as the academic ambitions that underpinned Beck's projective style of social theory

Global Security and Public Health · Peacebuilding and International Security · Viral Infections and Outbreaks Research