Klappentext

This innovative book argues that establishing an ontological framework makes a substantial difference to Pierre Bourdieüs core concepts of habitus and field. In doing so it addresses the charges of determinism, tautology, and circularity that have long been directed at habitus and field. Teasing out Bourdieüs ontology, the book offers a novel critical realist reading of Bourdieu, arguing that while Bourdieu explored the epistemological basis of his key concepts, he neglects their ontological underpinnings, and that elaborating on this adds a layer of depth and complexity which enriches Bourdieüs project. In addition to articulating the synergies between Roy Bhaskar s critical realism and Bourdieüs oeuvre, this book extends Bourdieüs insights in new and exciting directions by developing an ontologically informed Bourdieusian account of institutions as explored through the lens of institutional racism and by outlining a unique methodological approach to habitus.