Theory in ‘Antitheoretical’ Times

Abstract

This paper is an intervention in defence of theory. The first section describes symptoms of the current decline in interest in theory: the relative absence of major theoretical considerations in sociological discussions, pragmatic tendencies in influential currents of social theory, and a general fascination with broad, neutral datasets. The second section reflects on the institutional factors influencing theory’s lack of popularity: the institutional costs of conducting theoretical research and a general tendency within the field of power to fit science into pragmatic models of relation with the social environment (for instance, in the ‘impact agenda’ of evaluation). The article proposes a metaphor which describes the expectations of the field of power towards social sciences: the metaphor of a ‘start-up’ as a flexible and fast way of putting scientific innovation into use. The third section refers to Fredric Jameson’s reflection on late capitalism as an ‘antitheoretical’ time, in order to trace the historical conditions of the current disposition. Jameson’s diagnosis is supplemented but also reaffirmed in the description of contemporary culture as being concentrated on immediacy, and affects, imaginary. All these tendencies contribute to the growing distrust in theoretical ‘master narratives’. In conclusion, the reasons to still believe in theory are outlined and two traditions of thought successful in sustaining that belief are evoked.