Frontlash/Backlash Alexander Hardback Polity Press 9781509563753

Frontlash / BacklashAuthor(s): Jeffrey C. Alexander\nFormat: Hardback\nPublisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd, United Kingdom\nImprint: Polity Press\nISBN-13: 9781509563753, 978-1509563753\nSynopsis\nIn the aftermath of the Cold War, many societies seemed firmly set on a pathway to cultural reintegration, progressive reform, and democratic government. This didn't happen. Instead, they have become increasingly polarized, and far-right antidemocratic forces are gaining power. In his new work, Jeffrey Alexander explains why, developing an approach to social change that challenges the faith in progress that underpins much contemporary thinking. \n\nFar from being a smooth movement forward, progressive social change is like a car crash where cars pile up. The greater the movement forward, the greater the reaction to it. Reform movements such as anti-racism, feminism, and open immigration should be understood as frontlash movements creating extraordinary tensions. They challenge not only mat?