The Revival of Death

by Tony Walter

Talking about death is now fashionable, but how should we talk? Who should we listen to - priests, doctors, cousellors, or ourselves? Has psychology replaced religion in telling us how to die? This provocative book takes a sociological look at the revival of interest in death, focusing on the hospice movement and bereavement counselling. It will be required reading for anyone interested in the sociology of death and caring for the dying, the dead or bereaved.

240 pages, Paperback

First published November 24, 1994

Reviews

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Published in 1990, this book is now a historical rather than contemporary resource but it is well researched and Walter’s positioning on the post-modern divergence from the modernist relationship with death is well framed and argued. Capitalism and our ever-growing (even 25 years later) assertions of individualism have put us in a corner in our relationship with death. Where we go from here, when and how can the pendulum swing again, will be quite interesting to see. Given the current state of US politics and the surge of the ultra right-wing, we may be getting a glimpse.

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply the best review of the post modern nature of death and loss available