Mark Davis

Teleology explores our understanding of purpose and creation through the lens of rapid technological change that brings about a new form of intelligence. Framed by the struggles of twin brothers, the story begins and ends millions of years in the future while looking back to the events and tribulations that transformed human consciousness. Teleology is post-dystopian, avoiding the cliche of painting technology as a tool of oppression, and instead asking how breakneck technological change changes us and our relationship with one another and concepts of good, evil, and God.

How does Bauman understand the concept of freedom, and how does this understanding relate to the political traditions of conservatism, liberalism and socialism? Mark Davis offers a critical enquiry into the sociology of Zygmunt Bauman, focusing on his English-language writings from the 1960s onwards. The book contributes to sociological debates about modern society by offering an interpretation of Bauman's work based on the concept of freedom, especially in terms of his extensive consideration of consumerism. Existing studies of Bauman have tended to focus uncritically upon other salient themes in his work, notably culture, power and socialism; Davis repairs the lack of critical engagement in the literature by identifying freedom as a focus for critical reflection. He also opens up new areas of discourse by analyzing Bauman's understanding of freedom in relation to the three great political traditions of conservatism, liberalism and socialism. This is an original contribution to discussions around Bauman's work which will be of interest to both sociologists and political theorists.