Critical Theory and Cultural Studies
The core focus of our work is the informed, critical, analysis of contemporary culture, media and society. We use an interdisciplinary approach, that draws on research in literary and critical theory, gender studies and queer theory, media and cultural history, aesthetics, politics and digital studies to explore:
- the rapidly changing nature of the world around us
- the social, political and cultural forces that have shaped the present
- the practices people engage in to transform the world around them
Our recent teaching and research activities have included looking at:
- “Biopolitical” phenomena such as wellness and the quantified self
- widely present but often overlooked aspects of everyday life, like noise, clutter, digital waste and procrastination
- the impact of planetary infrastructures of digital media on politics and culture
- queer and gender activism
- digital protest and anti-austerity movements
- ecological thinking and end of the world anxieties
Our degrees
Research
We’re a small group of dedicated researchers, closely affiliated with the Centre for Critical Theory.
Collaboration is key to our work. We work closely with colleagues in our Department of Cultural, Media and Visual Studies, as well more widely at School and University level.
We’re also well connected outside the university, with other universities and cultural institutions.
Find out more about our research themes, projects and people
Quality research
In the latest Research Excellence Framework assessment:
- 90% of our research environment has been recognised as of world leading quality
- 100% of our impact case studies have been recognized as having outstanding or very considerable impact
One of the highlights of Nottingham is the interdisciplinary nature of the research environment. There is a really broad range of interests and expertise here and my colleagues are genuinely open to alternative points of view and questions. We’re never short of debate and discussion is always worthwhile and thought-provoking.