Interweaving Deleuze & Luhmann w/ Hannah Richter

Academic Background and Philosophical Influences

The speaker shares insights into their academic journey, highlighting a background in political theory at the University of Sussex. They emphasize the influence of notable thinkers, particularly Gilles Deleuze and Niklas Luhmann, on their research interests, which span biopolitics, Anthropocene ontology, and decolonial thinking. The speaker adopts a flexible approach to these theories, stating they do not conform strictly to one philosophical lineage, but rather engage with these thinkers in a way that reflects contemporary political issues. This reflects a broader desire to connect theoretical frameworks to real-world phenomena, suggesting an evolving understanding of political theory in the context of current challenges.

Connecting Theory to Contemporary Issues

The discussion centers around how the integration of Luhmann's and Deleuze's ideas can shed light on pressing political challenges such as populism, conspiracy theories, and the concept of post-truth. The speaker argues that rather than viewing these phenomena as entirely new, they should be understood in the historical context of misinformation that has existed in politics over time. Notably, they highlight the role of digital media in amplifying these dynamics, suggesting that this technological advancement does not necessarily signify a qualitative shift but rather a quantitative escalation. By framing contemporary politics through the lens of these theorists, the speaker aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in current political phenomena.

The Demand Side of Politics

The conversation highlights a critical examination of the 'demand side' of politics, inquiring into why conspiracy theories and misinformation appeal to democratic citizens today. The speaker posits that while such occurrences are not unprecedented, the allure of these narratives might suggest deeper desires among voters for specific political orientations. They propose that the rise of post-truth populism represents not an end to political engagement but an adaptation of how politics operates within democratic systems. This perspective urges a reevaluation of how political institutions fulfill their functions in response to changing public expectations and the evolving landscape of political participation.

The Politics of Orientation

The concept of 'politics of orientation' emerges as a key theme, suggesting that contemporary politics may be shifting away from conventional decision-making towards providing frameworks for understanding complex societal issues. Drawing from both Luhmann and Deleuze, the speaker describes how political systems must navigate a landscape characterized by increased uncertainty and complexity. This orientation does not imply that politics is failing; rather, it highlights the function of politics to provide narratives that help citizens make sense of their world without necessarily delivering effective decisions. This reframing emphasizes the need for political discourse to adapt and resonate with the public's desire for guidance amid uncertainty, reflecting ongoing negotiations between authority and collective understanding.

Undisciplined Podcast

Interweaving Deleuze & Luhmann w/ Hannah Richter

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Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Academic Background and Philosophical Influences

Connecting Theory to Contemporary Issues

The Demand Side of Politics

The Politics of Orientation

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