Matthew added a paper
Matthew started following the work of Inka Stock, University of Nottingham, Sociology & Social Policy.
Matthew started following the work of Brent C. Sleasman, Gannon University, Theatre, Communication and Fine Arts.
Faculty Member, Interdisciplinary Studies (Political Science)
Visiting Assistant Professor
About
Contact: mhb34@medaille.edu
Areas of Specialization:
Political Theory
Political Psychology
Psycho-Social Studies
Politics and Literature
Ph.D. Political Science, University of Maryland (2008)
M.A. Political Science, University of Maryland (2005)
B.A. Political Science, Columbia University (1996)
My research explores the psychosocial dynamics underlying the development of ethical and political ideals, such as moral autonomy, individual freedom, absurd (radical) revolt, and political equality. Inasmuch as these ideals have shaped political and cultural practices, my research examines the needs, fears, and desires (at both individual and collective levels) that influence political and social change.
My current book project is entitled: "Albert Camus and the Return of the Absurd: Mourning, Revolt, and Terror in Absurdist and Postmodern Thought." It argues that a violent rejection of mourning and meaning lies at the heart of absurd philosophy and postmodern political thought.
My next project is an examination of Jean-Jacques Rousseau's social contract theory in light of eighteenth-century Deism and the psychology of neglect and abandonment.
I have also developed a line of research in the scholarship of teaching and learning that examines the significance of student-generated questions and the group dynamics of classroom interactions in fostering critical thought, reflection, and engagement, both in political theory courses and across the curriculum.
Recent publications:
Bowker, Matthew. (forthcoming) “Sisyphean (Out)rage and the Refusal to Mourn.” In The Complexity and Originality of Albert Camus’ Writing, ed. E. Vanborre.
———. 2011. “What is the Participant’s Good?: A Neglected Ethical Question in Psychosocial Research.” Psychoanalysis, Culture and Society 16(3): 324-332.
———. 2011. The Meaning of Absurd Protest: The Book of Job, Albert Camus, and C. Fred Alford’s “After the Holocaust.” Journal of Psycho-Social Studies 4(2): 1-21.
———. 2011. Albert Camus’ Critical Reception: From Celebration to Controversy.” In Critical Insights on Albert Camus, ed. S.G. Kellman. Hackensack, NJ: Salem Press.
———. 2010. “Understanding Camus’ Absurd as Ambivalence, and its Relevance for Existential and Psychodynamic Approaches.” Journal of the Albert Camus Society 2(1): 129-152.
———. 2010. “Teaching Students to Ask Questions Instead of Answering Them.” Thought and Action: The NEA Higher Education Journal 26(1): 127-134.
———. 2009. “The Absurdity of Terror.” Clio’s Psyche: Special Issue on the Psychology of Remembering September 11, 2001 16(2): 153-158.
———. 2009. “Meursault and Moral Freedom: The Stranger’s Unique Challenge to an Enlightenment Ideal.” Journal of the Albert Camus Society 1(1): 122-145.
———. 2009. “The Need for Roots: Review of Radical Pedagogy: Identity, Generativity, and Social Transformation, by Mark Bracher.” Clio’s Psyche 16(3) 320-324.
