Capitalism and the Limits of Desire

Capitalism and the Limits of Desire explores why the masses fight for their servitude as if it were salvation. John Roberts argues that we love the love of self that capitalism enables, even though it brings anxiety and self-scrutiny. He suggests that disentangling ourselves from this collapsing of self into capitalism is possible and that understanding the insidious nature of capitalist thinking is the starting point.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 264 pages
\n Publication date: 09 September 2021
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
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Capitalism and the Limits of Desire delves into the intricate relationship between self-love and the pursuit of pleasure, raising a profound question: why do the masses fight for their servitude as if it were salvation? In the face of ongoing austerity and misery for many, the seemingly insurmountable nature of capitalism becomes a pressing concern. John Roberts offers a compelling explanation for this phenomenon: it is because we cherish the love of self that capitalism thrives, even though it brings forth anxiety and self-reflection. Capitalism, in the form of commodities and the online platforms through which we express ourselves, has become an integral part of our identity, shaping how we define self-love as self-pleasure. It is challenging to imagine a life outside of this pervasive influence.

Roberts argues that it is possible to disentangle ourselves from this collapsing of self into capitalism and that understanding the insidious nature of capitalist thinking, even in our deepest pleasures, is the key to forging a new connection between self and desire. Drawing upon early and late Marx, Lacan's distinction between pleasure and desire, and the recent debate on perfectionism (Hurka), Roberts provides a roadmap for individuals to navigate this complex terrain. He advocates for a shift towards a more nuanced understanding of desire, one that encompasses both the material and the spiritual dimensions. By challenging the dominant narratives of platform capitalism, Roberts encourages individuals to reclaim their autonomy and forge a link between self and desire that transcends the oppressive demands of the digital age.

In conclusion, Capitalism and the Limits of Desire offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complex dynamics between self-love, pleasure, and capitalism. Through Roberts's insightful analysis and compelling arguments, we gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our lives and the potential for a more liberated and fulfilling existence outside the confines of platform capitalism.

\n Weight: 458g\n
Dimension: 146 x 223 x 24 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781350214941\n \n