Robert Jensen

Robert Jensen is a professor emeritus in journalism at the University of Texas at Austin and a prominent author focusing on media criticism, feminism, and radical politics. His work frequently examines issues of power, patriarchy, and white privilege in American society. Jensen has written extensively on pornography and masculinity, most notably in his books "Getting Off: Pornography and the End of Masculinity" and "The End of Patriarchy: Radical Feminism for Men." His media criticism includes analysis of journalism's role in war coverage and political discourse, explored in works like "Citizens of the Empire: The Struggle to Claim Our Humanity." Through his writing and activism, Jensen has addressed environmental sustainability and ecological challenges, particularly in "We Are All Apocalyptic Now: On the Responsibilities of Teaching, Preaching, Reporting, Writing, and Speaking Out." He maintains connections with various progressive social movements and has contributed to discussions about theology and progressive politics. His work often generates controversy due to his radical critiques of capitalism, organized religion, and mainstream political discourse. Jensen regularly contributes to various independent media outlets and continues to write about contemporary social and political issues.

Readers respond strongly to Jensen's direct challenges of societal structures. On Goodreads, reviewers note his clear writing style and thorough research, particularly in addressing complex topics like masculinity and media criticism. What readers liked: - Clear explanations of feminist theory for male audiences - Personal reflections integrated with academic analysis - Practical suggestions for addressing systemic issues - Straightforward writing style without academic jargon What readers disliked: - Repetitive arguments across multiple books - Perceived as too extreme in critiques of capitalism - Some find tone too preachy or self-righteous - Limited proposed solutions to problems identified Average ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 across all works "Getting Off": 3.9/5 (827 ratings) "The End of Patriarchy": 4.1/5 (246 ratings) "Citizens of the Empire": 3.7/5 (89 ratings) One reader noted: "Jensen excels at breaking down complex feminist concepts for men without watering down the message." Another criticized: "Makes valid points but becomes an echo chamber of radical leftist talking points."

Arguments for Actions: Social Justice Matters (2023) Examines the foundations of moral philosophy and its applications to contemporary social justice movements.

Plain Radical: Living, Loving, and Learning to Leave the Planet Gracefully (2015) A memoir and biographical work about activist Jim Koplin, exploring radical politics, ecology, and sexuality.

We Are All Apocalyptic Now: On the Responsibilities of Teaching, Preaching, Reporting, Writing, and Speaking Out (2013) Addresses the environmental crisis and the role of educators and communicators in response.

All My Bones Shake: Seeking a Progressive Path to the Prophetic Voice (2009) Explores the intersection of progressive politics, theology, and secular society.

Getting Off: Pornography and the End of Masculinity (2007) Analysis of pornography's impact on masculinity and gender relations in contemporary society.

The Heart of Whiteness: Confronting Race, Racism and White Privilege (2005) Examines white privilege and systemic racism in American society.

Citizens of the Empire: The Struggle to Claim Our Humanity (2004) Critiques American foreign policy and discusses citizen responsibility in times of war.

Writing Dissent: Taking Radical Ideas from the Margins to the Mainstream (2001) Guide to communicating radical political ideas to mainstream audiences.

Howard Zinn focuses on social movements and grassroots perspectives in American history. His analysis of power structures and inequality parallels Jensen's critical examination of systemic issues.

Noam Chomsky examines media systems, power dynamics, and institutional control in modern society. His work on propaganda and democratic discourse shares themes with Jensen's media criticism.

Michael Parenti writes about imperialism and the relationship between economic power and political systems. His analysis of corporate influence and class structures aligns with Jensen's critiques of capitalism.

bell hooks explores intersections of race, class, and gender in American culture. Her work on patriarchy and systemic oppression connects to Jensen's writing on masculinity and social justice.

David Edwards investigates media control and institutional propaganda in western democracies. His examination of corporate media and power structures reflects Jensen's focus on information control and democratic discourse.