Rev Left Radio Pure Excess: Capitalism, Commodity Fetishism, and the Promise of More
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Mar 10, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Todd McGowan, a film studies professor and author, explores the deep links between capitalism and our psychology. He delves into commodity fetishism and how our desires often lead to existential dissatisfaction. McGowan highlights capitalism's illusion of fulfillment and the 'death drive' propelling relentless consumption. He also advocates for embracing lack and leveraging art as a means to critique consumerism, urging listeners to envision a life beyond capitalist confines.
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Capitalism's Exploitation of Desire
- Capitalism exploits desire itself, creating a cycle of wanting and consuming.
- Breaking free requires a psychological and existential struggle, alongside political and economic ones.
The Inutility of Capitalism's Excess
- Capitalism's real psychic reward lies in producing too much, creating inutility.
- It profits from things we don't need, blurring the lines between usefulness and excess.
Examples of Excessive Consumption
- Consumers often buy new shoes or cars before the old ones wear out.
- This demonstrates capitalism's encouragement of excessive consumption beyond necessity.
