Experience and Representation

"Experience and Representation: Contemporary Perspectives on Australian Migration" brings together influential theoretical perspectives and recent empirical material in the analysis of migration, race and contemporary Australian culture and politics. Making use of recent social theory, it explores the complexities surrounding the experience and representation of migration; exploring the most appropriate conceptual frameworks to understand ethnicity and racism, whilst assessing the utility of the concepts of globalisation, transnationalism and multiculturalism in understanding contemporary migration processes. The book is organised thematically in order to permit thorough investigation of questions surrounding migration theory across a range of social sciences, the political impact of globalisation processes for contemporary Australians and migrant communities, and migrants' cultural experiences and the forging of identities on arrival. With a primary focus on Australia, "Experience and Representation: Contemporary Perspectives on Australian Migration" draws insightful comparisons with the UK and USA, whilst exploring the complexities surrounding the 'subjectivities' of migration. It discusses the key debates on immigration and ethnic relations within the context of Australian politics, presenting an exploration of urban environments. In addition, this book discusses the representation of migrants in the media and, through an analysis of art forms, including literature and film, it interrogates the ways in which attitudes towards migration inform contemporary culture. As such, it will be of interest not only to scholars of migration, but also those working in the field of cultural studies, social theory and media.