Adorno on objects: towards an inclusive social theory

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ABSTRACT In this paper, we draw insights from Theodor W. Adorno’s views on objects to demonstrate the relevance of the subject-object-oriented model of social theory. By engaging closely with his notion of the ‘preponderance of the object’, we develop an account of social ontology that blends substantial, relational, and processual ontologies. We highlight the usefulness of Adorno’s social ontology in addressing contemporary social concerns related to subject-object relations, such as the reification of consciousness and objectification. Furthermore, we emphasize its significance in light of distorted subject-object relations. Considering these aspects, we argue that subject-object oriented social theory is more inclusive and relevant than the intersubjective model that emerged after the linguistic turn in Critical Theory.