Eugene W. Holland, "Perversions of the Market: Sadism, Masochism, and the Culture of Capitalism" (SUNY Press, 2024)

Feb 21, 2025

Eugene W. Holland, Professor Emeritus of Comparative Studies at The Ohio State University and author of 'Perversions of the Market,' discusses how capitalism institutionalizes sadism and masochism. He connects these dynamics to everyday life, revealing moral paradoxes, such as those faced by marginalized individuals. The conversation also touches on the interplay between identity and consumerism, critiques of traditional structures, and the challenges of adapting capitalism in a rapidly changing world. Holland calls for significant societal changes to confront these issues.

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INSIGHT

Beyond Sexual Connotations

Sadism and Masochism, derived from complex literary works, carry deeper meanings than their sexual connotations suggest.
Their origins reveal insights into socio-historical power dynamics and the cultural discontents of capitalism.

INSIGHT

Socio-Historical Sadism and Masochism

Sadism and masochism in a socio-historical context are not simply individual psychological tendencies.
They describe broader, institutionalized behavior patterns within capitalist structures.

INSIGHT

Sadism, Masochism, and Capitalism

The Marquis de Sade's work reflects the objectification of individuals as mere means to an end in capitalist production.
Masochism, arising later, reflects the dependence on consumerism for identity formation under capitalism.

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Perversions of the Market

Sadism, Masochism, and the Culture of Capitalism

Eugene W. Holland

Eugene W. Holland's "Perversions of the Market" examines the intertwining of sadism and masochism within the framework of capitalism. The book explores how global capitalism distorts free markets, leading to societal patterns of sadistic production and masochistic consumption. Holland uses Deleuze and Guattari's schizoanalysis to analyze the psychodynamics of the capitalist market, integrating Freud's and Lacan's perspectives. He argues that these perverse relations must be addressed to prevent capitalism's destructive impact. The book's historical and theoretical analysis offers a critical perspective on modern culture.