Political Loneliness: Modern Liberal Subjects in Hiding

Political Loneliness: Modern Liberal Subjects in Hiding explores the loneliness experienced by individuals in modern societies, particularly in light of the neoliberal ideology. The book argues that the political structures inherited from the liberal tradition, such as anonymity and the pursuit of private self-interest, have created a sense of isolation and detachment, leading to a longing for belonging and the susceptibility to delusional fellowships like totalitarianism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Political Loneliness: Modern Liberal Subjects in Hiding delves into the pervasive loneliness that persists in contemporary society, despite our growing interconnectedness. While the issue of loneliness has been extensively explored in the main currents of continental philosophy, this book takes a unique approach by addressing it from a political perspective. The central argument of this book is that neoliberal subjectivity has led to a profound sense of loneliness among individuals. Drawing extensively from the insights of Hannah Arendt, the author argues that the political structures inherited from the liberal tradition, such as the anonymity of the vote and the pursuit of individual self-interest, have created a sense of isolation and detachment from one another. This, in turn, has hindered our ability to perceive ourselves as part of a shared world and has made us susceptible to the allure of delusional fellowships like totalitarianism.

By developing the problem of loneliness in a political register, this book provides a valuable framework for interpreting the rise of totalitarianism at the beginning of the twentieth century and the recent resurgence of right-wing populism in Western liberal democracies. It contributes significantly to ongoing debates in continental philosophy, liberal political theory, and critical theory regarding issues of alienation, political life, and community in the present age.

The author argues that the neoliberal emphasis on individualism and self-interest has created a culture of atomization and isolation. People are increasingly disconnected from their communities, social networks, and political institutions, leading to a sense of disconnection and loneliness. The anonymity of the vote, for example, allows individuals to cast their ballots without feeling a sense of responsibility or connection to the broader political community. This lack of engagement and participation contributes to a sense of powerlessness and disillusionment, which can be exploited by political movements that promise to restore a sense of belonging and identity.

Furthermore, the author suggests that the rise of totalitarianism and right-wing populism can be attributed to the political loneliness experienced by individuals in liberal and allegedly open societies. These movements offer a sense of belonging and identity, providing a refuge from the isolation and disillusionment that many people feel. However, these movements often promote ideologies that are harmful to democracy, such as nationalism, authoritarianism, and xenophobia.

To address the issue of political loneliness, the author proposes a shift towards a more communitarian approach to politics. This involves promoting greater social cohesion, community engagement, and political participation. It means creating spaces where individuals can connect with others who share their values and interests, and where they can engage in meaningful political discourse and action.

The author also emphasizes the importance of education and cultural institutions in promoting a sense of belonging and identity. By providing opportunities for learning, cultural exchange, and social interaction, these institutions can help individuals develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world. This, in turn, can foster a sense of political engagement and participation, which can counter the isolation and disillusionment that contribute to political loneliness.

In conclusion, Political Loneliness: Modern Liberal Subjects in Hiding offers a thought-provoking exploration of the pervasive loneliness that persists in contemporary society. By developing the problem of loneliness in a political register, the book provides a valuable framework for interpreting the rise of totalitarianism and right-wing populism. It calls for a shift towards a more communitarian approach to politics, promoting greater social cohesion, community engagement, and political participation. By fostering a sense of belonging and identity through education and cultural institutions, we can counter the isolation and disillusionment that contribute to political loneliness and work towards a more inclusive and democratic society.

Weight: 299g
Dimension: 208 x 142 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538148310