ABSTRACT
In general terms, this chapter is an attempt to answer the following question: what difference does critical realism make within the field of cultural studies? The short answer to this would have to be, regrettably: as yet, not much. Nevertheless, we are convinced of the potential of critical realism, especially in the guise of dialectical critical realism (DCR), to make a significant contribution to cultural studies. To demonstrate this, we examine, firstly, the history of cultural studies; secondly, its turn to policy; and, finally, its move to embrace the new media, creative industries and the new economy.1 We conclude this overview by suggesting some critical realist solutions to the aporia of cultural studies as currently practised.
