Description
Book Synopsis: Meeting the Universe Halfway is an ambitious book with far-reaching implications for numerous fields in the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. In this volume, Karen Barad, theoretical physicist and feminist theorist, elaborates her theory of agential realism. Offering an account of the world as a whole rather than as composed of separate natural and social realms, agential realism is at once a new epistemology, ontology, and ethics. The starting point for Barad’s analysis is the philosophical framework of quantum physicist Niels Bohr. Barad extends and partially revises Bohr’s philosophical views in light of current scholarship in physics, science studies, and the philosophy of science as well as feminist, poststructuralist, and other critical social theories. In the process, she significantly reworks understandings of space, time, matter, causality, agency, subjectivity, and objectivity.
In an agential realist account, the world is made of entanglements of “social” and “natural” agencies, where the distinction between the two emerges out of specific intra-actions. Intra-activity is an inexhaustible dynamism that configures and reconfigures relations of space-time-matter. In explaining intra-activity, Barad reveals questions about how nature and culture interact and change over time to be fundamentally misguided. And she reframes understanding of the nature of scientific and political practices and their “interrelationship.” Thus she pays particular attention to the responsible practice of science, and she emphasizes changes in the understanding of political practices, critically reworking Judith Butler’s influential theory of performativity. Finally, Barad uses agential realism to produce a new interpretation of quantum physics, demonstrating that agential realism is more than a means of reflecting on science; it can be used to actually do science.
Details
Unlock the mysteries of the universe with "Meeting the Universe Halfway: Quantum Physics and the Entanglement of Matter and Meaning." Karen Barad's groundbreaking book delves into the realms of theoretical physics and feminist theory to offer a unique perspective on agential realism. Discover how the world is intricately interconnected, challenging traditional notions of space, time, and causality. Dive into a new epistemology that merges the natural and social realms, shaping a holistic understanding of our existence.
Delve deep into the profound insights of agential realism as Barad redefines the boundaries between science, society, and ethics. Explore the dynamic entanglements of social and natural agencies, where distinctions blur and interconnections emerge. Experience a paradigm shift as you unravel the complex relationships between matter, agency, and subjectivity. Barad's analysis transcends disciplinary boundaries, offering a fresh perspective on how nature, culture, and politics intersect in our ever-evolving world.
Revolutionize your perception of science and beyond with agential realism. Embrace the transformative power of intra-activity, a dynamic force that continuously shapes our reality. Witness a reinterpretation of quantum physics that challenges conventional wisdom and propels us towards new scientific frontiers. Join the discourse of change and progress as Barad advocates for responsible scientific practices and reimagines the foundations of political theory.
Embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment with "Meeting the Universe Halfway." Embrace the intertwined nature of matter and meaning, and let agential realism illuminate your path towards a deeper understanding of the universe. Challenge your perspectives, expand your horizons, and be part of a transformative discourse that bridges the gap between science and society. Take the first step towards a new realm of knowledge and exploration.
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