Description
Book SynopsisTracing Spikes in Fear and Narcissism in Western Democracies Since 9/11 discusses critically not only the modern obsession with consuming news related to disasters or terrorism as a primary form of entertainment, but also explores the theory of pleasure as it was formulated by the ancient Greeks and continued by Sigmund Freud. Beyond the principle of pleasure was the touchstone of the sense of scarcity, which was rooted in the logic of capitalism. Throughout the 1970s, the society of producers brought about the advent of a society of consumerists; however, after the attacks on the World Trade Center September 11, 2001, things radically changed. The idea of terror, which had been encapsulated within the society of producers, was expanded to become the centerpiece of a new stage of capitalism, Thana-Capitalism, which made the death of others the main commodity for exchange and consumption.
Trade Review“Korstanje’s Tracing Spikes in Fear and Narcissism in Western Democracies Since 9/11 is a scathing and insightful critique of the conditions of twenty-first century capitalism. It is a form of capitalism that pitches blissful pleasures to the masses while peddling idiotic fears surrounding terrorism, dangers, and crises of all kinds. He asks when, if ever, is the right time to question the prevailing socio-capitalist order? When do we draw the proverbial line in the sand and call-out violence and injustices regardless of the context? Should we continue to accept the inherent violence of capitalism because we are accustomed to it? Korstanje believes the answers to these questions is “no,” and he expertly shows us why some liberty is not liberty at all. He asks us to consider how the happiness afforded by capitalism has come at a terrible price. This is a book not to be missed—authoritative and unflinching, Korstanje’s book demands our attentions.” —Dr. Luke Howie, Deputy Director, Global Terrorism Research Centre, Monash University, Australia
“In this book, Korstanje discusses at length the philosophy and social culture of terrorism and capitalism. He ties together many previous controversies, then introduces new issues into the debate about what the impacts will be if terrorism and capitalism continue to evolve as they have in the last few decades. The continuing fear of global terrorism, which many would say was popularized by the American 9/11 event although it existed long before, has impacted everyone. 9/11 certainly is not the first or only global terrorist event, but since that day onward, most people around the world have been negatively impacted by a reduction of their human rights and a loss of feeling safe and secure.” —Dr. Kenneth D. Strang, CEO APPC Research, Australia; Professor, State University of New York
“In days of terror and anxiety, books like this one ignite a hot debate on the intersection of terror, pleasure, and narcissism.” —Dr. Max Abrahms, Northeastern University
Table of ContentsIntroduction – Beyond the Principle of Pleasure Lies Terror – The Archetype of Lost Paradise: Neglecting Suffering – From Production to Consumption: The Origins of Terror – Maximiliano E. Korstanje / Hugues Seraphin: Miscarried Enjoyment! Alcohol Consumption as a Platform of Pleasure, Hospitality, and Distinction – From Risk Perception Towards Thana-Capitalism – The Heritage of Terror – Terrorism and Media in the Days of Thana-Capitalism.
