Description
Book SynopsisLynn Chancer advances the provocative thesis that sadomasochism is far more prevalent in contemporary societies like the United States than we realize. According to Chancer, sexual sadomasochism is only the best-known manifestation of what is actually a much more broadly based social phenomenon.
Trade Review"An important contribution to that most pressing of cultural projects -- uncovering the psychic roots of authoritarianism."
"A brilliant, highly original analysis of contemporary U.S. society. Chancer illuminates fundamental issues in American culture, in the workplace, in gender relationships, and the minefield of race." -- Ruth Sidel, Hunter College, and author of On Her Own: Growing Up in the Shadow of the American Dream
"A brilliant, highly original analysis of contemporary U.S. society. Chancer illuminates fundamental issues in American culture, in the workplace, in gender relationships, and the minefield of race." -- Ruth Sidel, Hunter College, and author of On Her Own: Growing Up in the Shadow of the American Dream
Ruth Sidel, Hunter College, and author of
On Her Own: Growing Up in the Shadow of the American Dream:
"A brilliant, highly orginal analysis of contemporary U.S. society. Chancer illuminates fundamental issues in American culture, in the workplace, in gender relationships, and the minefield of race."
Table of ContentsAcknowledgments
Introduction Reflecting on a Set of Personal and Political Criteria
Part One Expanding the Scope of Sadomasochism
Chapter 1 Exploring Sadomasochism in the American Context
Chapter 2 Defining a Basic Dynamic: Paradoxes at the Heart of Sadomasochism
Chapter 3 Combining the Insights of Existentialism and Psychoanalysis: Why Sadomasochism?
Part Two Sadomasochism in Its Social Settings
Chapter 4 Employing Chains of Command: Sadomasochism and the Workplace
Chapter 5 Engendering Sadomasochism: Dominance, Subordination, and the Contaminated World of Patriarchy
Chapter 6 Creating Enemies in Everyday Life: Following the Example of Others
Chapter 7 A Theoretical Finale
Epilogue
Notes
Index
