Echoes of Despair: The Existential Unsustainability of Modern Empires

Soren Kierkegaard, a 19th-century Danish philosopher, is often regarded as a pioneer of existentialism. His work focuses on individual experience, subjectivity, and the complexities of human existence. Although Kierkegaard did not directly address the political and economic systems of colonialism, nationalism, imperialism, and capitalism, his philosophical insights can be applied to critique these interconnected systems. Below is a discussion that draws on Kierkegaardian themes to explore the interconnectivity and unsustainability of these systems.

Interconnectivity

Colonialism and Imperialism: These systems are deeply intertwined, with imperialism often seen as the extension of a nation’s power through direct or indirect control over other territories. Kierkegaard’s concept of the “despair” of the aesthetic and ethical stages of existence can be used to critique these systems. Colonialism and imperialism, driven by the desire for power and wealth, reflect an aesthetic mode of existence, where individuals or nations seek external validation and material gain, neglecting ethical and spiritual dimensions. This pursuit leads to a form of collective despair as it ignores the intrinsic value and autonomy of the colonized peoples.

Nationalism: Nationalism can be seen as an attempt to create a unified identity and purpose for a nation. However, Kierkegaard might argue that this collective identity often relies on excluding or devaluing the “Other.” Nationalism’s focus on a homogeneous national identity can lead to the oppression of minorities and justify imperialistic ventures, thereby reinforcing colonialism. This reflects Kierkegaard’s notion of inauthenticity, where individuals or nations fail to recognize their true selves and instead conform to a false, collective identity.

Capitalism: Capitalism is an economic system driven by the pursuit of profit and growth, often at the expense of ethical considerations. Kierkegaard’s critique of the crowd and the individual’s loss in the collective can be applied here. In capitalism, individuals are reduced to mere consumers and workers, losing their unique identities and ethical responsibilities. Capitalism often supports and is supported by imperialism and colonialism, as the quest for new markets and resources drives expansionist policies. This economic system perpetuates inequality and exploitation, reflecting Kierkegaard’s concern with despair and the loss of authentic selfhood.

Unsustainability

Existential Despair: Kierkegaard’s concept of despair, arising from a disconnect between the individual’s true self and their existence, can be applied to these systems. Colonialism, nationalism, imperialism, and capitalism all foster a form of collective despair, where societies are built on exploitation, exclusion, and materialism. This collective despair is unsustainable as it leads to social and moral decay, unrest, and conflict.

Ethical and Spiritual Bankruptcy: Kierkegaard’s emphasis on the ethical and religious stages of life suggests that true sustainability comes from recognizing and acting according to one’s ethical and spiritual duties. These systems are often ethically bankrupt, focusing on power, identity, and profit rather than justice, compassion, and community. This neglect leads to a spiritual void that cannot sustain a healthy society in the long term.

Inherent Conflicts: The systems of colonialism, nationalism, imperialism, and capitalism are inherently conflictual. Colonialism and imperialism breed resistance and rebellion among the oppressed, nationalism fosters internal and external conflicts through its exclusionary practices, and capitalism generates class struggle and economic crises. Kierkegaard’s philosophy highlights the unsustainability of living inauthentically and in conflict with one’s true nature, which can be extended to these societal systems. They create conditions for continual conflict and instability, making them unsustainable in the long run.

Drawing on Kierkegaard’s existential philosophy, it becomes evident that colonialism, nationalism, imperialism, and capitalism are interconnected through their shared reliance on external validation, power, and materialism. They are unsustainable as they lead to existential despair, ethical and spiritual bankruptcy, and inherent conflicts. For a more sustainable and authentic existence, Kierkegaard would advocate for a move towards recognizing and fulfilling our ethical and spiritual responsibilities, valuing the intrinsic worth of all individuals and communities.

Who is Soren Kierkegaard?

Søren Kierkegaard was a Danish philosopher known primarily for his contributions to existentialism and theology. His philosophical focus can be summarized in a few key themes:

Individual Existence and Subjectivity: Kierkegaard emphasized the importance of individual experience and the subjective nature of human existence. He argued that truth is found through personal experience and inner reflection, rather than objective or universal truths.

The Leap of Faith: Central to Kierkegaard’s thought is the concept of the “leap of faith.” He believed that rationality has its limits and that true faith requires a leap beyond reason. This idea explores the tension between doubt and belief, particularly in religious contexts.

The Stages of Life: Kierkegaard described three stages of life that individuals pass through: the aesthetic, the ethical, and the religious. Each stage represents a different way of living and understanding the world, with the religious stage being the highest, where one finds true meaning through a relationship with God.

Anxiety and Despair: Kierkegaard delved into the human condition, exploring feelings of anxiety and despair. He saw these emotions as integral to the human experience and as catalysts for personal growth and self-realization.

Relevance to Global Politics Today

Kierkegaard’s philosophy offers a valuable lens through which to view contemporary global politics for several reasons:

Emphasis on Individual Experience: In a global political landscape often dominated by collectivist ideologies and mass movements, Kierkegaard’s focus on individual subjectivity highlights the importance of personal freedom and responsibility. This perspective can inform debates on human rights and the role of the individual in society.

Ethical and Religious Dimensions: Kierkegaard’s stages of life, particularly the ethical and religious stages, provide a framework for understanding the moral and spiritual dimensions of political decisions. This can be particularly relevant in discussions about the ethical implications of policies and the role of religion in public life.

Navigating Uncertainty: Kierkegaard’s concept of the “leap of faith” resonates in a world facing complex and often unpredictable challenges, such as climate change, political instability, and technological disruption. His ideas can inspire leaders and individuals to make bold decisions in the face of uncertainty.

Addressing Existential Concerns: The existential themes of anxiety and despair are increasingly relevant in a world where issues like economic inequality, cultural displacement, and identity crises are prevalent. Kierkegaard’s exploration of these feelings can provide insights into the psychological and emotional dimensions of global political phenomena.

Critique of Rationalism: Kierkegaard’s skepticism towards pure rationalism challenges the technocratic and often overly rationalistic approaches to governance and policy-making. His philosophy suggests the need for a more holistic approach that considers emotional and spiritual well-being.

By applying Kierkegaard’s insights to global politics, we can gain a deeper understanding of the human elements that underlie political actions and decisions, leading to more compassionate and reflective political practices.

Additional Readings:

Kierkegaard, S. (1843). Either/Or: A Fragment of Life. Translated by Alastair Hannay. Penguin Classics.

Kierkegaard, S. (1844). The Concept of Anxiety: A Simple Psychologically Orienting Deliberation on the Dogmatic Issue of Hereditary Sin. Translated by Reidar Thomte. Princeton University Press.

Hong, H. V., & Hong, E. H. (Eds.). (1998). Kierkegaard’s Writings, XV: Upbuilding Discourses in Various Spirits. Princeton University Press.

Pattison, G. (2005). The Philosophy of Kierkegaard. McGill-Queen’s University Press.

Stewart, J. (Ed.). (2002). The Essential Kierkegaard. Princeton University Press.