Brutalism

Brutalism, as described by Achille Mbembe, reflects the overwhelming weight and destruction of contemporary capitalism, which has produced a becoming-artificial of humanity and the becoming-human of machines. Afro-diasporic thought offers a solution to break the totalizing logic of capitalism by repairing what is broken, developing a new planetary consciousness, and reforming a community of humans in solidarity with all living things.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2024
Publisher: Duke University Press

Brutalism, as envisioned by renowned social and critical theorist Achille Mbembe, serves as a poignant lens through which to understand our contemporary moment, teetering on the precipice of demolition and production on a global scale. Just as brutalist architecture evokes a sense of overwhelming weight and destruction, Mbembe argues that contemporary capitalism exerts an oppressive dominance over all aspects of existence. In the digital, technologically driven era we find ourselves in, capitalism has resulted in the artificialization of humanity and the mechanization of machines. This blurring of the natural and artificial poses a grave planetary existential threat, where the objective of contemporary societies is to precipitate the mutation of the human species into a hybrid of plastic and synthetic.

Mbembe contends that Afro-diasporic thought holds the key to dismantling the all-encompassing logic of contemporary capitalism. He advocates for repairing what is broken, fostering a new planetary consciousness, and reimagining a community of humans unified in solidarity with all living beings. By embracing the rich tapestry of Afro-diasporic experiences, Mbembe suggests, we can cultivate a transformative vision that challenges the dominant narratives of power and progress.

In this era of rapid change and global interconnectedness, the architectural aesthetic of brutalism offers a powerful reminder of the human capacity for both destruction and creation. As we navigate the complexities of our contemporary world, Mbembe's insights provide a roadmap for rebuilding and revitalizing our societies, fostering a sense of harmony and balance with the natural world. By embracing the principles of Afro-diasporic thought, we can strive towards a future where humanity and technology coexist in symbiotic harmony, paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable world.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781478025580