The discussion dives into Deleuze's innovative concept of 'flows,' reshaping our understanding of social theory and interconnectedness. Traditional views on identity are challenged, highlighting the importance of difference in philosophy. Nietzsche's eternal recurrence prompts reflection on choices and self-awareness. This deep exploration encourages listeners to rethink conventional beliefs about time, politics, and being, making for a thought-provoking exploration of modern philosophical themes.
'Flows' refer to the movement and interaction of social phenomena, exist at various levels, and can be shaped by human intervention.
Machines become part of flows and shape their nature, highlighting the intricate connections and processes between machines and flows.
Deep dives
Understanding society through the lens of flows
In this podcast episode, the hosts discuss the concept of 'flows' as proposed by Deleuze and Guattari in their book 'Capitalism and Schizophrenia: A Thousand Plateaus'. The hosts explain that 'flows' refer to the movement and interaction of social phenomena, such as economic transactions, emigration, traffic, ideas, and even bodily processes like the flow of excrement through sewage systems. They highlight that these flows exist at various levels and are driven by forces or machines responsible for their movement. The hosts also emphasize the role of human intervention in shaping and redirecting these flows, drawing parallels with how a dam can alter the course of a river. By examining society through the lens of flows, Deleuze and Guattari argue for a more comprehensive understanding of social phenomena, moving away from rigid static identities and embracing the constant motion and complexity of the world.
Machines and flows: Becoming part of the flow
The hosts explore the interaction between machines and flows, emphasizing how machines become part of these flows and shape their nature. They use the example of a wasp contributing to the reproductive process of orchids, where the wasp's role defines its identity within the flow. The hosts extend this concept to various social phenomena, such as traffic, commodities, and cultural movements, highlighting that machines, including individuals and institutions, become integrated into the flow. They stress the intricate connections and constant territorialization, deterritorialization, and reterritorialization processes that occur between machines and flows. By considering machines' impact on flows, Deleuze and Guattari present a radical perspective on society, where a rhizome of flows and machines creates a complex and ever-changing world.
Difference prior to identity: Challenging traditional notions
The hosts question the traditional view that identity is prior to difference, presenting Deleuze's alternative perspective that difference precedes identity. They argue that identity is derived from contrasting something with everything it is not, rather than having a fixed essence. The hosts associate this idea with the dichotomy of being versus becoming in Western philosophy and draw a connection to Nietzsche's concept of the eternal recurrence. They suggest that embracing difference as primary challenges the static identities assigned to objects and fosters a deeper understanding of the world. Deleuze's approach redirects philosophical discourse by emphasizing the world's constant motion and the importance of observing and analyzing the intricate web of differences and flows that shape our reality.
