Introduction
In his thought-provoking book "Age of Anger: A History of the Present," Pankaj Mishra explores the roots of the global discontent and turmoil we're witnessing today. He takes us on a journey through history, tracing the origins of our current predicament back to the Enlightenment era and beyond. Mishra's work is a wake-up call, urging us to look beyond the surface of today's conflicts and understand the deeper, long-standing issues that have led us to this point.
The Enlightenment's Unfulfilled Promises
Mishra begins by examining the Enlightenment, a period that fundamentally shaped Western society and, by extension, much of the world. The Enlightenment philosophers championed reason, science, and individualism, promising a world where anyone could achieve success and influence through their own efforts. These ideas were revolutionary and exciting, offering hope for a more equal and just society.
However, as Mishra points out, the reality fell far short of these lofty ideals. Instead of creating a level playing field, the competitive nature of the new society often reinforced existing inequalities. The gap between the promise of the Enlightenment and the harsh realities of life became increasingly apparent, leading to widespread disillusionment.
This disillusionment, Mishra argues, is not a new phenomenon. It has been brewing for centuries, manifesting in various forms of social and political unrest. The author draws parallels between historical figures like Napoleon and modern populist leaders, showing how charismatic individuals have long capitalized on societal discontent to gain power.
The Concepts of Ressentiment and Amour-Propre
Mishra introduces two key philosophical concepts that help explain the anger and frustration prevalent in today's world: ressentiment and amour-propre.
Ressentiment, a term coined by philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, describes the resentment and hostility felt towards those perceived as benefiting from society at the expense of others. This concept helps explain the current backlash against journalists, artists, and the liberal elite. Many people feel that these groups are dictating how society should function while seemingly profiting from the system they criticize.
Amour-propre, a concept developed by Jean-Jacques Rousseau, refers to an individual's preoccupation with their worth and appearance in the eyes of others. This idea is particularly relevant in the age of social media, where people are constantly curating their online personas and seeking validation from others.
Together, these concepts create a potent mix of selfishness and combativeness. People become focused on their own image and advancement, often at the expense of others and society as a whole.
Rousseau's Prescient Warnings
Mishra pays special attention to the work of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, portraying him as a visionary who foresaw many of the problems we face today. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Rousseau was skeptical of the unrestrained pursuit of wealth and commerce. He recognized that competition based on monetary gain could damage people's psyches and lead to cruel behavior.
Rousseau's insights into the concept of amour-propre are particularly relevant today. He worried that people would acquire possessions not for their inherent value, but for the status they conferred. This observation seems especially prescient in our consumer-driven, social media-obsessed world.
Another area where Rousseau differed from his fellow Enlightenment thinkers was in his approach to religion. While many of his contemporaries dismissed organized religion entirely, Rousseau recognized its value as a moral guide for the masses. He understood that simple religious messages could provide comfort and direction for many people, something that the more elitist philosophers often overlooked.
The Global Spread of Ressentiment
Mishra argues that globalization has intensified the feelings of anger and discontent across the world. As local communities have been eroded by global forces, many people feel lost and disconnected. The internet, while connecting people in unprecedented ways, has also contributed to a sense of isolation and competition.
The author points out that as globalization has increased, the perceived value of national identity has decreased. This has led to a backlash, with many groups attempting to resurrect old national identities. Mishra cites the rise of groups like the so-called Islamic State (IS) as an example of this phenomenon.
This global ressentiment has created fertile ground for extremist groups and demagogues. Terrorist organizations prey on disillusioned youth, offering them a sense of purpose and identity. Similarly, populist leaders promise stability and a return to traditional values in uncertain times.
Mishra paints a picture of a world teetering on the brink of a global civil war, with hotspots of resentment and rage scattered across the globe. The unpredictable nature of these aggrieved individuals and groups makes the situation particularly volatile.
The Failure of Liberal Capitalism
One of Mishra's central arguments is that liberal capitalism has failed to deliver on its promises. The capitalist system was supposed to make everyone wealthier and more successful if they focused on work and consumerism. Instead, Mishra argues, it has made people more individualistic, self-centered, and avaricious.
When people realize that material success doesn't bring the satisfaction they were promised, they often become disappointed, paranoid, or miserable. In these circumstances, even ordinary people can be driven to commit worrying or violent acts.
Mishra challenges the Western tendency to blame religion, particularly Islam, for violence in the East. He argues that many of the perpetrators of violence have actually been failed by the same system of liberal capitalism that has disappointed people in the West. He cites the example of Abu Musab al Zarqawi, the founder of the precursor to IS, who began as a drug dealer and pimp before turning to extremist ideology.
The Dangers of the "Clash of Civilizations" Theory
Mishra criticizes the influential "Clash of Civilizations" theory proposed by American political scientist Samuel P. Huntington. This theory posits that Islam is inherently incompatible with democracy and Western values, and therefore poses a threat to Western civilization.
The author argues that this kind of thinking is not only inaccurate but also dangerous. It creates a self-fulfilling prophecy, fueling resentment and conflict between different cultures and religions. Mishra calls for a more nuanced understanding of global conflicts, one that recognizes the complex interplay of economic, social, and political factors.
The Way Forward
In the face of these challenges, Mishra calls for a fundamental reassessment of our global system. He argues that Western politicians, thinkers, and intellectuals need to take responsibility for the failures of liberal capitalism and the negative effects of globalization.
Rather than defending a system that has clearly failed many people, Mishra suggests that we need to find new ways of organizing our societies and economies. This might involve reconsidering our approach to community, national identity, and economic growth.
The author also emphasizes the importance of understanding history. By recognizing the long-standing roots of our current problems, we can avoid simplistic solutions and work towards more comprehensive and effective responses.
Conclusion
"Age of Anger" is a challenging and thought-provoking book that forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about our world. Mishra's analysis suggests that the current global upheaval is not an aberration, but the result of long-standing tensions and contradictions in our social and economic systems.
By tracing the roots of our discontent back to the Enlightenment and beyond, Mishra provides a valuable historical perspective on contemporary issues. He shows how concepts like ressentiment and amour-propre, first articulated centuries ago, continue to shape our world today.
The book's critique of liberal capitalism and globalization is particularly timely. As more and more people around the world express dissatisfaction with the status quo, Mishra's analysis helps us understand the deeper causes of this discontent.
However, "Age of Anger" is not merely a critique of the present system. It's also a call to action. Mishra challenges us to think beyond the current paradigm and imagine new ways of organizing our societies. He urges us to learn from history, to avoid the mistakes of the past, and to work towards a more just and equitable world.
In the end, "Age of Anger" leaves us with both a warning and a glimmer of hope. The anger and resentment that characterize our age are deeply rooted and potentially destructive. But by understanding their origins and acknowledging the failures of our current system, we have the opportunity to chart a new course.
The book reminds us that the future is not predetermined. While the challenges we face are significant, they are not insurmountable. By learning from the past, critically examining the present, and imaginatively envisioning the future, we can work towards a world that truly fulfills the Enlightenment's promise of liberty, equality, and fraternity for all.