Illuminating the Patterns of Domination: Critical Theory, Modernity and Power

Abstract

Sisyphus in Flames focuses on the contribution of critical social theorists and existential philosophers to resistance and resilience in dark times. German social theorists Theodor Adorno and Max Horkheimer argue that the highest priority in such times is sharp critique of the problematic myth that we can overcome our fear of the unknown through technocratic mastery of nature. Martin Heidegger’s focus on repairing interconnections between humanity and Earth helps explain the ongoing influence his ideas have for ecological activists. Hannah Arendt suggests that ‘the great and incalculable grace of love’ remains our greatest source of psychological and societal resilience. Existential philosophers extend these arguments about freedom and responsibility; love and solidarity by noting that our individual choices are always made in the context of awareness that no one exists alone. Genuine freedom and true courage mean choosing a side in ways which enable and strengthen the freedom of others as well as ourselves.