Reflections on "critical thinking" in global studies

Manfred B. Steger

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Much of what passes today as “global(ization) theory” falls within the new transdisciplinary framework of “global studies” (GS). GS constitutes an academic space of tension that generates critical investigations into our age as one shaped by the intensifying forces of globalization. Indeed, the young field both embraces and exudes the “global imaginary” – a sense of the social whole that frames our age as one shaped by the forces of globalization. Moreover, few GS scholars would object to the proposition that their field is significantly framed by “critical thinking.” But they need to be prepared to respond to a number of questions regarding the nature of their critical enterprise. What, exactly, does critical thinking signify in this context and how is it linked to GS? Do globalization scholars favor specific forms of critical thinking? If so, which types have been adopted and for what purposes? Finally, what forms of internal and external criticism have been leveled against GS itself and how have these objections been dealt with? These four questions provide the guiding framework for these reflections on the significance of critical thinking in GS.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)19-40
Number of pages22
JournalProtoSociology
Volume33
Publication statusPublished - 2016

Keywords

  • globalization
  • critical thinking
  • social change
  • culture and globalization

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