In Mystical Society Philip Wexler, a well-known critical theorist with a background in social psychology and a special interest in spirituality, examines the revitalization of spirituality manifesting itself in society and in education. Describing what he calls "cultural changes toward the sacred," he documents a cultural shift, brought about by technological and societal changes, toward a new mysticism. Wexler explores the meaning for this new spirituality for our daily lives, for social theory, and for education. From the pervasiveness of a spiritual vernacular to the integration of spiritual practices into our highly individualized and technologized lives, Wexler lays out the evidence for a growing movement, and then draws parallels to periods of mystical revitalization from the past. In the course of this discussion, he draws on the work of Marx, Weber, and Durkheim, as well as from contemporary social theory.

About the Author
Philip Wexler is Michael Scanding Professor of Education and Sociology in the Warner Graduate School at the University of Rochester, and he is Senior Research Fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem. His previous books include: Critical Social Psychology, Social Analysis of Education, Becoming Somebody, and Holy Sparks.


Book Information
ISBN 9780813391434
Author Philip Wexler
Format Paperback
Page Count 176
Imprint Westview Press Inc
Publisher Taylor & Francis Inc
Weight(grams) 453g