Why Cultural Studies? is a rallying call for a reinvigoration of the project of cultural studies that provides a critical analysis of its meteoric rise to the academic fore and makes a convincing argument for the pressing need for a renewed investment in, and re-evaluation of, its core ideals. * Rodman argues that there are valuable lessons we can learn from cultural studies past that have the potential to lead cultural studies to an invigorated and viable future * Makes the claim that cultural studies isn t and shouldn t be solely an academic subject, but open to both academics and non-academics alike * Asserts that now more than ever cultural studies has a productive role to play in promoting social justice and building a better world * Written by one of the leading figures in the area of cultural studies, and the current Chair of the Association for Cultural Studies