

Novara FM: The Age of Disaster Nationalism w/ Richard Seymour
Oct 24, 2024
Richard Seymour, writer and founding editor of Salvage magazine, discusses the rise of disaster nationalism, where catastrophes are exploited for political gain. He highlights how far-right movements scapegoat marginalized groups, linking these tactics to historical and contemporary events like the Gujarat riots and UK protests. Seymour critiques neoliberalism’s impact on social connection and calls for the left to harness collective resentment into meaningful action. His insights draw alarming parallels between today’s climate of fear and the past, urging a united response to systemic oppression.
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Allure of Disaster
- The allure of disaster for the right lies in the feeling of being assailed and punished.
- They substitute real catastrophes with fake emergencies, offering a simplified enemy.
Oregon Wildfires Example
- During the 2020 Oregon wildfires, some residents blamed Antifa rather than evacuating.
- They believed a plot against conservative white Christians, highlighting disaster nationalism's impact.
Disaster Nationalism's Appeal
- Disasters don't inherently bring people together, especially in communities divided by tensions.
- Disaster nationalism offers an alternative, simplified disaster with a blameable enemy.