Dr. David Alderson

Biography

David Alderson is a Professor at the University of Manchester specializing in Literary Cultural Studies. Over the years, he has written extensively on topics such as gender, sexuality, and neoliberalism in literature, film, and television. His monograph, 'Sex, Needs and Queer Culture: Liberation Postgay' (2016), showcases his critical engagement with Herbert Marcuse’s work and is methodologically influenced by Cultural Materialism, particularly the work of Alan Sinfield. Alderson explores the relationship between mainstream and post-structuralist Queer Theory and reflects on its relevance within various cultural contexts. His ongoing project investigates the political economy of family through the lens of literature, tracing ideas from postwar fiction back to the late eighteenth century, examining key concepts influenced by Hayek and Burke. Alderson’s research addresses how familial morality and relations interact with themes of exclusion and inequality. His work contributes to essential discussions in the fields of queer studies and cultural critique, positioning him as a notable figure in contemporary literary scholarship.

Research Interests