Renegade by Kenneth J Gergen

Renegade by Kenneth J Gergen

Renegade: Postmodern Revolution and the Relational Imperative explores a pivotal intellectual shift in the scholarly world, challenging the Western Enlightenment’s focus on individualism and advocating for the primacy of relationships. In the late 20th century, long-held beliefs in truth, objectivity, and individual reason were critically appraised, giving rise to a relational vision that counters the competitive dynamics threatening humanity today.

Through a deeply personal lens, the author recounts his journey from dedication to Enlightenment ideals to rejecting their assumptions. A promising career in scientific psychology was disrupted as he questioned the scientific method and the concept of mind, leading to his participation in interdisciplinary dialogues on the social construction of knowledge, its linguistic constraints and ideological biases. Collaborating with professionals in mental health, education, and organisational development, the author helped translate these ideas into practice, fostering dialogue and collaboration as tools for shaping the future.

The book also examines the cultural and technological forces driving this intellectual revolution and the precarious conditions confronted today. It speaks to anyone curious about this transformative period and its contemporary relevance, providing frameworks for collaborative action and a relational approach to building a sustainable future.

Kenneth J. Gergen is a Senior Research Professor in Psychology at Swarthmore College, USA, and President of the Taos Institute. Gergen received his BA from Yale University and his PhD from Duke University and has taught at Harvard University and Heidelberg University.