In this incisive book, Michel de Certeau considers the uses to which social representation and modes of social behavior are put by individuals and groups, describing the tactics available to the common man for reclaiming his own autonomy from the all-pervasive forces of commerce, politics, and culture. In exploring the public meaning of ingeniously defended private meanings, de Certeau draws brilliantly on an immense theoretical literature to speak of an apposite use of imaginative literature.

Draws together diverse images of landscape to explore the historical processes shaping our continuing attachment to the countryside - seen in artistic expression, attitudes to nature, country life and the development of rural and urban land.

Drawing on contemporary cultural and feminist theory, redefines sociology to account for the immediate experience of everyday life, desire, memory, time, the body, and other realities neglected by the field. Juxtaposes the standard theoretical texts, such as Foucault, Bergson, Freud, and Hegel, with boss-secretary relations, the beach, English heritage, and modern film. A paper edition is available (6897-9), $18.95. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR.