In Theory Rad Thk 3

Setting himselfagainst the growing tendency to homogenize 'œThird World'� literature andcultures, Aijaz Ahmad has produced a spirited critique of the majortheoretical statements on 'œcolonial discourse'� and 'œpost-colonialism,'�dismantling many of the commonplaces and conceits that dominatecontemporary cultural criticism. With lengthy considerations of, amongothers, Fredric Jameson, Edward Said, and the Subaltern Studies group, In Theory also contains brilliant analyses of the concept of Indian literature,of the genealogy of the term 'œThird World,'� and of the conditions underwhich so-called 'œcolonial discourse theory'� emerged in metropolitanintellectual circles.Erudite and lucid, Ahmad's remapping of the terrain of cultural theory is certain to provioke passionate response.

Aijaz Ahmad is a renowned cultural theorist who has taught in several western and Indian universities. A frequent contributor to Frontline magazine, he currently lives in New Delhi.