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Start for freeUnderstanding Capitalist Realism and Its Cultural Impact
The term 'capitalist realism' might seem mystifying at first, but it essentially refers to a pervasive mood or 'fog' that has descended over society, especially following the late 1970s under late-stage capitalism. This mood shapes our political possibilities, emotional landscapes, aspirations, and defines what we consider achievable within our current societal structure.
The Epochal Mood of Capitalist Realism
Capitalist realism can be likened to an epocal mood, significantly different from the feelings and social connections experienced in a feudal society. It's not just about the economic system but how this system influences our perception of the world, our connections with others, and our personal aspirations. The modern world, under the influence of capitalist realism, has led to a mass marketization of crucial aspects of being a person, affecting everything from socializing to dating.
The No Alternative Scenario
A key aspect of capitalist realism is the notion that there appears to be no viable alternative to a worsening status quo. This sentiment, famously encapsulated by Margaret Thatcher's statement that 'there is no alternative,' reflects a form of political and emotional sterility where change seems unattainable. This has profound implications on how we view societal problems, including climate change, where individual actions are emphasized over systemic solutions, fostering a sense of impotence and resignation.
The Structural Flaws and Their Impact
The structural flaws inherent in our society, according to capitalist realism, are not natural but have been deeply internalized to seem so. These flaws create friction and perpetuate a cycle of 'sandpaper burns' on humanity, leading to a universalizing layer of experience where everyone is limping through the world, fostering a sense of camaraderie but also of deep-seated frustration and impotence.
The Rise of a New Subject
One of the most significant implications of capitalist realism is the emergence of a new type of subject, shaped by the prevailing mood of the epoch. This new subject is characterized by depressive anhedonia, a constant need for stimulation, and a profound sense of sterility and impotence. This reflects a broader crisis in society - a crisis of creativity, possibility, and the ability to envision a future different from the status quo.
The Creative Stagnation and RetroMania
Capitalist realism has led to a cultural impasse, where the production of the new is stifed, leading to what has been termed 'retromania' - a nostalgic return to the past rather than a creative exploration of the future. This cultural stagnation is symptomatic of the broader malaise affecting society, where the possibility of genuine change or innovation feels increasingly out of reach.
Market Stalinism and the Bureaucratic Explosion
The neoliberal project, which sought to marketize every aspect of society, has paradoxically led to an explosion in bureaucracy, contradicting its own principles. This 'market stalinism' has complicated the lives of individuals, particularly in sectors like education, where the primary goal seems to have shifted from learning to conforming to bureaucratic standards and audits.
The Slow Cancellation of the Future
Capitalist realism, in essence, represents the slow cancellation of the future, where the possibility of something new, whether in terms of cultural production or societal change, feels increasingly out of reach. This has led to a form of collective impotence, where despite recognizing the problems facing us, from environmental crises to social inequalities, there seems to be no clear path forward.
In conclusion, capitalist realism offers a critical lens through which we can understand the prevailing mood of our times. It challenges us to recognize the structural flaws in our society and to imagine a future beyond the constraints of the current system. The question that remains is: how can we break free from this pervasive mood and rekindle a sense of possibility and change?
For a deeper exploration of these themes, consider watching the insightful discussion on capitalist realism here.
