Uncertain Times

Thirty years ago, democracy was declared a global success, bringing about an era of consensus and peace. However, the reality that emerged in the 1990s was an absolute and globalized capitalism that has led to increased inequality, exclusion, and hate. In this book, Jacques Rancière critiques the globalized capitalist consensus, highlighting its true nature through events such as the invasion of Iraq, the riots on Capitol Hill, and the rise of the European far right. At the same time, he praises the dynamism of social movements that affirm the power of the assembly of equals and challenge the post-1989 system of domination.

Format: Hardback
Length: 154 pages
Publication date: 16 February 2024
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Thirty years ago, the world celebrated the triumph of democracy, heralding a new era of consensus that promised a peaceful world through the rational examination of objective problems. However, the reality we face today is far from the utopian vision that was once envisioned. The grand hopes that once filled our hearts have crumbled, and the so-called "new" era has turned out to be remarkably similar to the old order. To understand why this has happened, we must delve into the nature of the consensus itself, which is not the peace it promised but rather a map of a territory on which new forms of warfare are being waged.

The objective reality that emerged at the end of the 1990s was an absolutized and globalized capitalism that has led to an unprecedented level of inequality, exclusion, and hate. This system has created a world where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer, while marginalized communities are left to suffer in the shadows. The invasion of Iraq, the riots on Capitol Hill, and the rise of the European far right are just a few examples of the true nature of this consensus, as is the current state-sanctioned racism that exploits the disenchanted progressive tradition and is led by an intelligentsia that claims to be left-wing.

In this critical book, Jacques Rancière delivers a frank and piercing critique of the globalized capitalist consensus. He exposes the false promises of this system and its devastating consequences for society. Rancière argues that the invasion of Iraq, the riots on Capitol Hill, and the rise of the European far right are not mere anomalies but rather symptoms of a deeper problem. The true nature of this consensus is revealed through the state-sanctioned racism that exploits the disenchanted progressive tradition and is led by an intelligentsia that claims to be left-wing.

At the same time, Rancière praises the dynamism of social movements that affirm the power of the assembly of equals and its capacity for worldmaking. Autonomous protest collectives have proven themselves capable of opening breaches in the consensual order and challenging the post-1989 system of domination. These movements have shown that there is still hope for a better world, one where equality, justice, and peace are not just ideals but a reality for all.

In conclusion, the global triumph of democracy was once seen as a beacon of hope for a peaceful world. However, the reality we face today is far from the utopian vision that was once envisioned. The consensus that was supposed to bring us together has instead led to inequality, exclusion, and hate. It is time for us to reject the false promises of globalized capitalism and embrace the dynamism of social movements that affirm the power of the assembly of equals and its capacity for worldmaking. Only through collective action and the affirmation of our shared humanity can we create a better world for ourselves and future generations.

Weight: 332g
Dimension: 143 x 223 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509558674