A compilation of texts stemming from a lecture series that took place in Amsterdam in 2008 (organized by the Stedelijk Museum, University of Amsterdam, W139, SMBA, and Metropolis M). Contributors such as Terry Eagleton, Boris Groys, Hou Hanru, W.J.T. Mitchell, Kaja Silverman, Sean Snyder, and Julian Stallabrass consider the convergence of urgent social issues and artistic practices, examining the state and role of the visual arts in culture today. Considerations of the impact of 9/11 on visual culture, the role of religion in society, and how globalization affects art production and circulation are particularly relevant.