Ideas for Action: Relevant Theory for Radical Change

by Cynthia Kaufman, Elizabeth Martínez (Foreword)

From the Enron scandal to global warming, from the war on terrorism to the war on drugs, a growing number of people are unhappy with the status quo. Yet those genuinely interested in reading about the issues find that few contemporary theorists are seriously committed to accessible, clear writing. Furthermore, the mainstream media rarely represents social movements, and the theories associated with them, without distortion or bias. Written in an engaging and accessible style, Ideas for Action gives activists the intellectual tools to turn discontent into a plan of action. Exploring a wide range of political traditions—including Marxism, anarchism, anti-imperialism, poststructualism, feminism, critical race theory, and environmentalism—Cynthia Kaufman acknowledges the strengths and weaknesses of a variety of political movements and the ideologies inspired by or -generated through them. Kaufman incorporates elements of her own activist experiences, and offers a coherent analysis without pretending to offer "the final word" on complex issues. Instead, she encourages inquiry and further investigation, offering readers the information to orient a critical understanding of the social world and a glimpse of the excitement and rewards of serious intellectual engagement with political ideas. Ideas for Action examines the work of diverse thinkers such as Adam Smith, Paulo Freire, Stuart Hall, and Ronald Takaki. Kaufman’s insights break the chains of cynicism and lay a foundation for more effective organizing. Cynthia Kaufman lives in Oakland, CA, where she has been involved in the tenant’s rights movement. She has a doctorate in Philosophy from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and teaches Philosophy and Women’s Studies at De Anza College in Cupertino.

Genres: Nonfiction, Politics, Social Justice, Activism, Theory

342 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Kurt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel a thousand times smarter for reading this book. Or, at least, a thousand times less ignorant; more equipped; better able to understand. It's a perfect introduction to the world of left-wing politics. I've already recommended it to a few people and lent it to one other. It essentially devotes a few pages each to every kind of social justice movement; from vanguardism to children's rights; from radical feminism to environmentalism. She summarizes everything so well that even adherents to those political persuasions aren't left feeling like it was inadequate or incomplete.

I would say it's even readable for a person who's not a leftist. It doesn't take a hard line for any of the positions outlined and it allows people to come to their own conclusions.

In summary, read it! Then recommend it! Yeah!

[Bigg Khalil · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably one of my all time favorite accidental buys. I found it while wondering a bookstore in Seattle and snatched it up. It was great! I like how it gives a good foundation for a number of different types of action, explaining the philosophy and ideas behind it, and uses clear and accessible language to do so. I'm hoping to use it for a class in the near future.

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlike any other book I am aware of Ideas for Action entertainingly and usefully explains and contextualizes the thinking behind movements for a more just and equitable world.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cynthia Kaufman was my professor (almost 20 years ago) back when I was exploring my beliefs, politics and,well, my voice. She was an inspiration and I will always value all that I learned in her class. This book is a microcosm of all that I took away from my classroom experience as it demonstrates her ability to explore ideas, critically analyze pros/cons of theories and engage the reader in the excitement and possibility of change.

[Mounia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kaufman's book is amazing in its ability to relate social and political theories to our very real and pressing problems. She goes ones step further by giving us a sense of hope in her action components. Overall, a beautifully thoughtful and intelligent book.

[Lowell AfdahlRice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great primer from a professor/activist that's been in the trenches in Oakland and Central America.

[Marty]

A surprisingly good intro to leftist politics/philosophy. Defintely a good read for young activisty types (if thats your thing). Not really my thing, but would be a good read for others.

[Violet · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reading this for my Women's Studies senior seminar. It's really good theory-wise, but for a book focused on *action* it's a bit less-than-inspiring so far.