Capitalism and Desire: The Psychic Cost of Free Markets

Capitalism dominates because it mimics the structure of our desire while hiding the trauma that the system inflicts upon it. People from all backgrounds enjoy what capitalism provides, but at the same time, they are told more and better is yet to come. Capitalism traps us through an incomplete satisfaction that compels us after the new, the better, and the more.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2023
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Despite creating vast inequalities and propping up reactionary world regimes, capitalism has many passionate defenders—but not because of what it withholds from some and gives to others. Capitalism dominates,Todd McGowan argues,because it mimics the structure of our desire while hiding the trauma that the system inflicts upon it. People from all backgrounds enjoy what capitalism provides,but at the same time are told more and better is yet to come. Capitalism traps us through an incomplete satisfaction that compels us after the new,the better,and the more. Capitalism s parasitic relationship to our desires gives it the illusion of corresponding to our natural impulses,which is how capitalism s defenders characterize it. By understanding this psychic strategy,McGowan hopes to divest us of our addiction to capitalist enrichment and help us rediscover enjoyment as we actually experienced it. By locating it in the present,McGowan frees us from our attachment to a better future and the belief that capitalism is an essential outgrowth of human nature. From this perspective,our economic,social,and political worlds open up to real political change. Eloquent and enlivened by examples from film,television,consumer culture,and everyday life, Capitalism and Desire brings a new,psychoanalytically grounded approach to political and social theory.

Introduction:
Capitalism, a system that has dominated the global economy for centuries, has been both praised and criticized for its effects on society. While it has brought about significant economic growth and technological advancements, it has also created vast inequalities and perpetuated systems of oppression. In this essay, we will explore the paradoxical nature of capitalism and its impact on human desires.

Paradoxical Nature of Capitalism:
Capitalism is often described as a system that rewards hard work and entrepreneurship, providing individuals with the opportunity to achieve success and wealth. However, the reality is far more complex. Capitalism operates on the principle of competition and profit, which can lead to ruthless behavior and exploitation. The pursuit of profit often comes at the expense of workers' rights, environmental sustainability, and social well-being.

Impact on Human Desires:
Capitalism has a profound impact on human desires. On the one hand, it offers a wide range of products and services that cater to our needs and desires, from luxury goods to technological innovations. This abundance of choice can create a sense of fulfillment and happiness, as we are able to acquire the things we want and enjoy. On the other hand, capitalism also creates a culture of consumerism, where we are constantly bombarded with advertisements and marketing messages that encourage us to buy more and more. This constant desire for more can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and anxiety, as we are never able to fully gratify our desires.

Psychic Strategy of Capitalism:
Todd McGowan, a psychoanalyst, argues that capitalism operates on a psychic strategy that mimics the structure of our desire. He suggests that capitalism hides the trauma that the system inflicts upon us, creating a sense of fulfillment and pleasure that is incomplete and unsatisfying. This psychic strategy compels us to continually seek out new products and experiences, as we are never able to fully gratify our desires.

Rediscovering Enjoyment as We Actually Experienced It:
McGowan believes that we can break free from the addiction to capitalist enrichment and rediscover enjoyment as we actually experienced it. He suggests that we should focus on the present moment and appreciate the things that we have in our lives, rather than constantly seeking out new experiences and products. This approach can help us to cultivate a sense of gratitude and contentment, which can be more fulfilling than the constant pursuit of more.

Conclusion:
Capitalism has a paradoxical nature that creates both benefits and harms. While it offers a wide range of products and services that cater to our needs and desires, it also perpetuates systems of oppression and exploitation. By understanding the psychic strategy of capitalism and rediscovering enjoyment as we actually experienced it, we can create a more just and sustainable economic system that benefits all members of society.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 150 x 229 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231178730