What difference does establishing an ontological framework make to Pierre Bourdieus core concepts of habitus and field? This innovative book argues that it makes a substantial difference and, furthermore, that doing so addresses the charges of determinism, tautology, and circularity that have long been directed at habitus and field. Teasing out Bourdieus ontology, Akram offers a novel critical realist reading of Bourdieu, arguing that while Bourdieu explored the epistemological basis of his core concepts, he neglects their ontological underpinnings, and that elaborating on this adds a layer of depth and complexity which enriches Bourdieus project. In addition to articulating the synergies between Roy Bhaskars critical realism and Bourdieus oeuvre, this book extends Bourdieus insights in new and exciting directions by developing an ontologically informed Bourdieusian account of institutions as explored through the lens of institutional racism, an issue which is neglected by Bourdieu and his interlocuters. A dedicated chapter outlining a methodological approach to habitus will also prove useful to those who find theoretical value in the concept but are unclear about its methodological implications.

Sadiya Akram is a Senior Lecturer in Politics at Manchester Metropolitan University, UK. Sadiyas research is concerned with race and racism, concepts of agency and political mobilisation. The socio-political thought of Pierre Bourdieu is a focal point of her work.