Deciphering the Peculiarities of the Past Four and a Half Years
Understanding the Unusual Dynamics
In recent times, it seems as though we've entered a new and strange era. This sentiment is shared by many, including myself, as we grapple with the changes that have occurred over the past four and a half years. I've been trying to comprehend the underlying psychodynamics of this new society we find ourselves in.
I recently attended a small gathering of dissident scholars, where I had a stimulating conversation with two fellow writers that shed some light on the situation. The dialogue led us to the conclusion that the bizarre occurrences of the past four and a half years could be attributed to a global manifestation of Stockholm Syndrome.
The Stockholm Syndrome Hypothesis
The concept of Stockholm Syndrome emerged from a bank robbery in Stockholm, Sweden in 1973. The hostages developed a seemingly irrational emotional bond with their captors, a phenomenon that psychologists have studied for decades to understand the mechanics of brainwashing.
Applying this to our current situation, the captors are represented by authoritative figures in white coats, and the hostages are us, the general public. Many have chosen to comply with these figures, believing it improves their chances of survival. This compliance has led to a new normal, where the captors have started to systematically harm the hostages.
However, the term Stockholm Syndrome might not fully encapsulate the dynamics at play. The original bank robbery incident that coined the term doesn't accurately represent the submissive dynamic psychologists are trying to describe. Moreover, an FBI report found that only a small percentage of kidnapping victims exhibited signs of Stockholm Syndrome.
The Concept of Hegemony
Another term that might better explain the past four and a half years is "hegemony". This term, as used by early 20th-century Italian anti-fascist Antonio Gramsci, refers to the economic incentives, structures, and habits that align thoughts and culture with dominant power structures in society.
This concept of hegemony has been evident during the Covid-19 pandemic. Many sectors of society, including healthcare, media, and academia, have aligned their actions with the desires of the dominant class. This alignment didn't require much coordination, as it operates through the gravitational pull of hegemony.
The Struggle Against Hegemony
The current ruling class is arguably the worst in human history, systematically amassing wealth and power at the expense of the population. The challenge we face is to resist and dismantle the operations of hegemony in service of humanity.
The Christian story, for instance, was the first global counter-hegemonic movement, challenging existing power structures and seeking eternal truth. Today, we must strive to listen to the "still small voice" that calls us to challenge hegemony and seek out what's actually true, despite the enormous cost to ourselves.
Bottom Line
The past four and a half years have indeed been peculiar, but the concepts of Stockholm Syndrome and hegemony might offer some insight into the psychodynamics at play. The challenge we face now is to resist the gravitational pull of hegemony and seek out what's actually true. What are your thoughts on this perspective? Share this article with your friends and join the conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, delivered every day at 6pm.
