Critical Theory in Contemporary Society is a series of monographs that explore the relation between contemporary society as a complex and highly differentiated phenomenon on the one hand, and critical theory as a correspondingly sophisticated methodology for studying and understanding it on the other. Volumes in the series highlight why critical theory offers appropriate concepts for understanding political movements, socio-economic conflicts, and state-institutions in an ever more global world, and why critical theory needs updating to keep pace with the realities of the 21st century. SERIES UPDATE : While these titles are still available from Bloomsbury, all future titles in this series will be published by Manchester University Press. For information on forthcoming titles and for more up-to-date news about this series, please visit the Manchester University Press website at: www.manchesteruniversitypress.co.uk.