Episode #203 ... Why the future is being slowly cancelled. - Postmodernism (Mark Fisher, Capitalist Realism) · Philosophize This! summary

Key takeaways

'Capitalist Realism' is characterized by an acceptance of capitalism as the only viable socio-economic system, shaping our understanding of the future.
The current focus on tolerant relativism often conflicts with the need for moral universals, complicating our societal responses to issues of injustice.
Cultural amnesia limits our historical understanding, isolating individuals from a collective identity and making it difficult to aspire for a meaningful future.
The prevalence of nostalgia in contemporary media reveals a reluctance to innovate, as much of today's creativity is simply a remix of the past.
Economic motivations are increasingly prioritized over ethical considerations, leading to a pervasive sense of disillusionment and helplessness, especially among the youth.

Summary

The Foundations of Capitalist Realism

In this episode, Stephen West delves into the foundation of what Mark Fisher calls 'Capitalist Realism,' building off discussions from the previous episode on neoliberalism. He highlights the hyper focus on individualism, competition as an organizing principle, and the detachment of government from innovation. The conversation explores how these elements, when merged with postmodernism, lead to a collective cultural 'memory condition' characterized by 'temporal amnesia' where society struggles to envision a different future.

Tolerant Relativism and Moral Dilemmas

West critiques the prevalent tolerant relativism in today's society, particularly among younger generations. He discusses how many view morality as relative, leading to a cultural attitude that supports the idea of total tolerance. However, he argues that this perspective is self-contradictory, as it fails to address moral universalism and can lead to a lack of accountability when confronted with injustice or intolerance. The discussion pushes listeners to understand the complexity of moral reasoning and the implications of living in a society that may not readily confront difficult moral dilemmas.

Cultural Amnesia and Hauntology

Drawing on the metaphor of the film 'Memento,' West connects Fisher's idea of cultural amnesia, where society forgets its past due to the overwhelming nature of postmodern skepticism. The episode illustrates how questioning grand narratives can lead to fragmented histories, making it challenging for communities to maintain a cohesive identity. The concept of 'Hauntology' emerges as a critical lens through which we examine how the past continues to influence the present and our inability to envision revolutionary futures.

The Nostalgic Present

In discussing trends in art, music, and film, West points out the common phenomenon of nostalgia in contemporary media, arguing that much of what is produced today is simply remixed versions of past cultural forms, rather than original creations. This reflection on culture serves as a broader commentary on society's struggle with originality and the implications of capitalism on creative expression. Fisher’s notion of the 'slow cancellation of the future' frames how individuals navigate a haze of uncertainty in their aspirations.

The Economic Structures of Capitalism in the Present

The episode culminates with a discussion on how capitalist structures prioritize profit over human connection. West explains how this economic rationale can often become more important than ethical considerations in various sectors, from healthcare to mental health. The demystification of capitalism as an unchangeable norm further complicates individuals' ability to envision alternative social futures, leading to feelings of disillusionment, especially among younger generations.

Show notes

Today we continue developing our understanding of the ideas that have led to what Mark Fisher calls Capitalist Realism. We talk about tolerant relativism, postmodern artwork, the slow cancellation of the future, Hauntology and Acid Communism. Hope you enjoy it! :)

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Episode #203 ... Why the future is being slowly cancelled. - Postmodernism (Mark Fisher, Capitalist Realism)