The Headless Politics of Georges Bataille with Stuart Kendall at the Durations Festival
Nov 18, 2024
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Stuart Kendall, a scholar on Georges Bataille, dives deep into Bataille’s provocative thoughts on excess and political identity. They explore how Bataille's concepts can guide us through today's political landscape, contrasting emotional engagement in fascism with rational leftist approaches. The discussion also critiques modern consumerism's alienation, linking it to communal identity and desire. Kendall illuminates Bataille's insights on irrational violence and community resistance, framing these ideas as vital for understanding leadership and promoting multiplicity in politics.
Georges Bataille's political philosophy emphasizes the importance of balancing excess and expenditure to foster community rather than waste.
The tension between homogeneity and heterogeneity reveals how social structures can foster conflict or cohesion, necessitating a nuanced approach.
Bataille critiques modern political thought, advocating for emotional experience and individual freedom amidst the extremes of fascism and communism.
Deep dives
Exploring Bataille's Political Thoughts
The core of Georges Bataille's political philosophy revolves around the concepts of excess and expenditure. Bataille sought to understand how societies can utilize wealth—be it energy or resources—in ways that promote community rather than waste. His analysis contrasts different political ideologies of his time, notably communism and fascism, examining how each addresses the use of communal energy and individual identity. He argues that fascism uses a charismatic leader to harness emotional identification within a homogeneous group, while communism often results in individual servitude to the state.
Homogeneity vs. Heterogeneity
Bataille's exploration of social structures highlights the tension between homogeneity and heterogeneity. He views homogeneity as a temporary illusion of unity created through shared identity or circumstance, while heterogeneity is represented by individuals or groups that may disrupt this illusion. Both concepts signify underlying instability within society—homogeneity can lead to oppressive uniformity, whereas heterogeneity can foster conflict and disintegration. Bataille emphasizes the need for a balance between the two, advocating for measured doses that maintain social cohesion without sacrificing individuality.
The Festival as a Concept
Bataille identifies the festival as a necessary interruption in social order, allowing for an overflow of energy and collective joy. Festivals permit individuals to break free from the constraints of rationalism and engage in spontaneous celebration, fostering a sense of unity within a community. He argues that when political events are treated as festivals, they can divert into dangerous fascistic atmospheres, where emotional fervor overshadows rational discourse. The need for a space where excess can be expressed safely is essential, lest society's passions become manipulated for authoritarian ends.
Bataille's Critique of Communism and Fascism
Bataille fundamentally critiques modern political thought, which often prioritizes rationality and utility over individual freedom and emotional experience. He presents communism as suffering from hyper-rationalism, leading to the suppression of individual sovereignty, while fascism allows for an emotionally charged collective experience but at the cost of personal freedom. This duality poses a significant challenge for contemporary society, where political liberalism fails to reconcile the desires of the masses with their emotional needs. Better understanding of these dynamics can shed light on current political landscapes, revealing the persistent relevance of Bataille's inquiries.
Bataille's Vision of Atheological Community
Bataille envisioned an atheological community, which rejects singular authority and promotes dialogue among its members. This model encourages diverse perspectives and the creative expression of excess, countering the dangers of a charismatic leader monopolizing power. In such a community, the processes of forming connections and shared experiences take precedence over rigid structures or hierarchies, enabling deeper engagement with life. This participatory and egalitarian approach seeks to free individuals from the isolating dynamics of modern rationality, allowing for a more profound connection with the world.
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DURATIONS FESTIVAL @ PUBLIC RECORDS (BROOKLYN, NY) 11.9.2024
Acid Horizon and Stuart Kendall unite for an in-person discussion that delves into the core concepts of Georges Bataille’s work—excess, heterology, the festival, and more. The conversation explores how these ideas underpin Bataille’s political thought and their implications for navigating the complex political landscapes of 2025 and beyond.
