Discussing The Politics of Political Science: Re-Writing Latin American Experiences

Abstract

A review is an interpretation and, at the same time, an invitation to read. Paulo Ravecca's book is challenging, dynamic, and thought-provoking, sparking questions and reflections within many areas of research and politics. This makes it a book with unlimited potential to stimulate and nourish research in a diverse array of matters beyond those specifically approached by it. It engages the reader-front and centre-with a stark political message: anyone can be oppressive, and oppression can happen in the name of anything. The author interrogates 'us', the readers, as he explores the link between knowledge and power. The work combines critical theory, epistemology, and comparative politics. This unusual blend implies in itself a contribution to questions about the type of knowledge we produce, and how we teach it. It makes us query and reflect on why we teach social sciences-specifically, political science. This book is unique in its capacity to spotlight, and interrogate, the political dimension of academic practice, disentangling ever present power relations.