Reconstituting ‘Common-sense’ Knowledge: Representations of Globalization Protests

Abstract

Common sense about globalization protests is embodied in media representations, aided by public intellectuals, and imported into the classroom. Survey research demonstrates that the template of representations is partially accurate and partly misleading. The protesters’ perspectives show considerable complexity, and indicate a selective rejection of neoliberal policies and core institutions but not an overall ‘antiglobalization’ stance. Even if not totally coherent, these bundles are not just random collections of beliefs, attitudes, goals, and strategies. They raise doubts about authoritative imagery and pose questions about transformative possibilities. It is well to recall that for Gramsci, critical thinking should not merely oppose but become part of people’s understanding of their own conditions, bringing about a new common sense.