Member-only story

Unlocking the Enigma of Finance: Discover the Routledge Handbook of Critical Finance Studies

Logan Cox

·3.7k Followers· Follow

Published in The Routledge Handbook Of Critical Finance Studies (Routledge International Handbooks)

4 min read · 4 weeks before

349 View Claps

24 Respond

Save

Listen

Finance, the lifeblood of modern capitalism, has long been shrouded in an aura of complexity and exclusivity. However, with the advent of critical finance studies, this veil of obscurity is being lifted, revealing the intricate interplay between finance, power, and society. "The Routledge Handbook of Critical Finance Studies: Rethinking Finance, Capitalism, and Society" is a groundbreaking text that delves into the heart of this emerging field, providing a comprehensive examination of the critical perspectives on finance.

Critical finance studies approach finance not as a neutral mechanism but as a social construct that shapes and is shaped by economic, political, and social forces. This lens challenges traditional views of finance as a value-free and efficient system, instead exposing the ways in which it perpetuates inequalities, amplifies risks, and influences human behavior.

The Handbook brings together leading scholars from diverse disciplines, including sociology, economics, anthropology, and law, to offer a multifaceted exploration of critical finance. Through a wide range of case studies and theoretical insights, the authors illuminate the complex relationship between finance and:

The Routledge Handbook of Critical Finance Studies (Routledge International Handbooks)

by Christian Borch

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3130 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	442 pages

Power and Inequality: Finance can concentrate wealth and power in the hands of a few, exacerbating economic disparities and social divisions.
Risk and Crisis: Financial markets are prone to instability, causing periodic crises that have devastating effects on individuals, communities, and economies.
Diversity and Inclusion: Financial institutions and practices often perpetuate existing inequalities, limiting opportunities for marginalized groups.
The Environment and Sustainability: Finance plays a crucial role in driving economic activities that contribute to environmental degradation and climate change.

The Handbook goes beyond critiques of the existing financial system, offering innovative and thought-provoking proposals for rethinking finance and its role in society. The authors explore alternative financial models, such as community-based lending and participatory finance, that prioritize inclusivity, sustainability, and social justice.

In ng so, the Handbook challenges the dominant ideology that equates financial success with societal well-being. Instead, it argues for a broader understanding of prosperity that encompasses social, environmental, and ethical dimensions.

While providing a rigorous academic analysis, the Handbook also offers practical applications and real-world insights for policymakers, practitioners, and activists. The authors identify key areas for intervention, such as:

Financial Regulation: Reforming financial regulations to mitigate risks, prevent crises, and promote financial stability.
Financial Inclusion: Expanding access to financial services for marginalized populations to reduce inequalities and foster economic empowerment.
Sustainable Finance: Developing financial mechanisms that support investments in environmental protection and social responsibility.
Alternative Finance Models: Promoting community-based and participatory finance as viable alternatives to traditional financial institutions.

"The Routledge Handbook of Critical Finance Studies: Rethinking Finance, Capitalism, and Society" is an essential resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of finance and its profound impact on our world. By shedding light on the hidden dimensions of finance, the Handbook empowers readers to critically engage with financial narratives, challenge conventional wisdom, and envision a more just and sustainable financial future.

Whether you are a student, researcher, policymaker, or simply a concerned citizen, this Handbook will provide you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of finance and make informed decisions about the financial systems that shape our societies.

The Routledge Handbook of Critical Finance Studies (Routledge International Handbooks)

by Christian Borch

5 out of 5