Marx and the critique of Actor-Network Theory: mediation, translation, and explanation

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn this paper, I draw out some of the points of overlap and divergence between Marxism and Actor-Network Theory (ANT). In the vein of Marx’s own critique of classical political economy, this examination focuses on the manner in which Marx’s analysis extends some of the key insights of the Actor-Network position. I focus on the manner in which Marx’s analysis incorporates mediation in a more sophisticated manner than ANT. In making this claim, I argue that the familiar Marxist concept of mediation finds its methodological double with respect to the concept of translation within ANT. The difference between Marxism and ANT, on this reading, comes from Marx’s broader methodological framework – which provides the basis for a more complete and inclusive explanation. Put in polemical terms: Marx might be said to provide the most rigorous Actor-Network account. If this is the case, this critique contains valuable lessons for not only ANT but also for mainstream social science.