1. Modernity and Modernization in Asia:
* "The Postcolonial Aura: Third World Criticism in the Age of Global Capitalism" (1997): This book examines the critique of modern capitalism from the perspective of postcolonial nations and challenges Eurocentric notions of modernity.
* "The Construction of Identity in Modern Asia" (1996): Explores the complex formation of national and cultural identities in modern Asia, particularly focusing on the interplay of colonial legacies and global capitalism.
* "Revolution and History: The Origins of Modernity in China" (1994): Analyzes the Chinese revolution and its impact on the development of a modern Chinese identity.
2. Marxism and Post-Marxism:
* "The Middle Ground: Essays on Discourse and Revolution in Modern China" (1994): Examines the theoretical and political challenges facing Marxism in contemporary China, exploring the contradictions between revolutionary discourse and social reality.
* "The Postmodernist Aura: On the Crisis of Marxism in the Late Twentieth Century" (2003): Offers a critical analysis of postmodernism and its implications for the development of Marxist theory in a globalized world.
3. Cultural Studies and Critical Theory:
* "The Case of the Middle East: A Critique of the U.S. 'War on Terror'" (2007): Provides a sharp critique of the U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, highlighting its historical roots and its role in shaping the region's politics and culture.
* "The Politics of History: Toward a Global Critique of Modernity" (2010): Presents a collection of essays that engage with critical theory and cultural studies, exploring themes of history, power, and identity in a global context.
4. Other Works:
* He has also published numerous articles and essays on various aspects of Asian studies, critical theory, and contemporary political issues.
Arif Dirlik's work is characterized by its rigorous scholarship, critical engagement with dominant narratives, and a commitment to uncovering the underlying power dynamics that shape global society. His contributions have significantly enriched our understanding of modernity, globalization, and the challenges of postcoloniality in the contemporary world.