Argues that the potentially powerful concept of writing as a social activity might become an instrument for the reproduction of existing social relations. Summarizes Lev Vygotsky's ideas about "self." Argues that the increasing interest in the social dimensions of writing can cultivate strategies for scholars and teachers to resist…

Discusses Vygotsky's ideas in art psychology on the role of emotion in art, the nature of the aesthetic experience, the semiotic nature of psychological processes, and the foundation of a Marxist psychology and a Marxist aesthetics. Central to all of his ideas was his critique of Russian formalism. (MMU)

Offers the author's own assessment or perspective on the usefulness of Fredric Jameson's work to the field of composition studies. Discusses his work on postmodernism. Explores in more detail the "pedagogical" functions of art Jameson hints at in his postmodernism work. (TB)