Can critical theory work without the concept of ‘ideology’? A Bourdieusian alternative perspective

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Corrado Piroddi

Tampere University

corrado.piroddi@tuni.fi

Abstract: Analyzing Pierre Bourdieu’s concepts of field and habitus, as well as his theory of social reproduction, the paper aims at showing how Pierre Bourdieu’s perspective constitutes a valid theoretical candidate for developing a conception of domination that aims at going beyond the ideas of ideology and false consciousness. In this respect, the paper highlights how a focus on objective and subjective structural factors can contribute to explaining the stabilization and reproduction of unfair social orders without postulating a weakening of social actors’ critical skills.

Keywords:Pierre Bourdieu, habitus, integrative struggle, social field, recognition.