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commented on Dialectic of Enlightenment by Max Horkheimer (Cultural Memory in the Present)

Max Horkheimer, Theodor W. Adorno: Dialectic of Enlightenment (Paperback, 1947, Stanford University Press) 4 stars

Dialectic of Enlightenment is undoubtedly the most influential publication of the Frankfurt School of Critical …

Tons of powerful ideas. I did find it to be .... not super accessible. I would love to read a longer book that explains this one to readers who aren't already steeped in the specific theories that this one is responding to.

We get to hear a range of Wilde's voices. There is a conversation that feels like a cross between a Socratic dialogue and The Importance of Being Earnest. There is a much more traditional essay about the use of costume in Shakespearean theatre. Wilde expresses many fascinating ideas about art and criticism of art. And the Socratic piece in particular also makes is clear that he's not dogmatically claiming he's "right" about his arguments. A good essay isn't a final answer, its scaffolding for interesting conversation.