Darren Kelsey

This book explores mechanisms of discourse and power on social media. KhosraviNik and Kelsey adopt interdisciplinary transnational perspectives on current debates about the role of social media in society. Using case studies from UK, US and Middle Eastern contexts which will be of interest to those within the field of critical discourse studies (CDS) and beyond, this book provides complex explorations of ideology and power in online/offline environments. By proposing a unique model for understanding the multiple mechanisms of macro and micro power on social media, the authors develop an innovative approach to CDS that is appropriate for future research.As a socially oriented critical study of communication, this book argues that CDS cannot shy away from accounting for changes both at the micro-analytical and macro-contextual dynamics. Tackling topics such as the discursive construction of a nationalist identity in Iranian Facebook, the complex power relations behind 'the Twitter Joke trial', and what a fight on a Connecticut beach can reveal about discourse and surveillance culture, Kelsey and KhosraviNik build on their previous research on the discursive practices of power, ideology, language, surveillance and social media to show how CDS can continue to adapt and evolve by accounting for digital media discourses.

This book examines the work of psychological illusionist Derren Brown to understand the significance of storytelling and ancient philosophy in our society. Reflecting on the social disconnection and political polarisation of recent times, Darren Kelsey considers how we can rebuild a sense of collective cohesion and common good, weaving together contemporary psychology with ancient Stoicism to cut through the noise of modern life. Kelsey shows that Brown is more than a stage performer: he’s an enlightened magician who offers us guidance for navigating the challenges life throws at us, using his skills and wisdom to help us better understand ourselves and enable human flourishing. In this rigorous examination of Brown’s work, Kelsey makes a compelling case for paying closer attention to our personal, cultural and political stories and beliefs to help create a better future – for ourselves, our communities, and the planet.

This book provides a timely political insight to show how mythology plays an affective role in our lives. Brexit, bankers, institutional scandals, the far right, and Russell Brand’s “revolution” are just some of the issues tackled through this innovative and interdisciplinary discourse analysis. Through multimedia case studies, Kelsey explores the psychological dimensions of archetypes and mythologies and how they function ideologically in contemporary politics. By synergising approaches to critical discourse studies with the work of Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell and other mythologists, Kelsey’s psychodiscursive approach explores the depths of the human psyche to analyse the affective qualities of storytelling. Kelsey makes a compelling case for our need to understand more about the power of mythology in modern society. Whilst mythology might be part of who we are, societies are responsible for its ideological substance and implications. Media and Affective Mythologies shows howwe can begin to engage with this principle.

This book provides a timely political insight to show how mythology plays an affective role in our lives. Brexit, bankers, institutional scandals, the far right, and Russell Brand’s “revolution” are just some of the issues tackled through this innovative and interdisciplinary discourse analysis. Through multimedia case studies, Kelsey explores the psychological dimensions of archetypes and mythologies and how they function ideologically in contemporary politics. By synergising approaches to critical discourse studies with the work of Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell and other mythologists, Kelsey’s psychodiscursive approach explores the depths of the human psyche to analyse the affective qualities of storytelling. Kelsey makes a compelling case for our need to understand more about the power of mythology in modern society. Whilst mythology might be part of who we are, societies are responsible for its ideological substance and implications. Media and Affective Mythologies shows howwe can begin to engage with this principle.