An introduction to the studies on aestheticization of politics. On Human Condition by Hannah Arendt

Abstract

The text is an interpretation of Human Condition by Hannah Arendt in respect of the process of the aestheticization of politics. The issue is strictly connected with the social phenomenon of consumption. Arendt explains the historical changes leading to emergence of the consumer society quite well, but she fails in her understanding of the consumption itself – she treats it in the Marxist way, i.e. as an exploitation of the use value of the good. As a consequence, she is unable to grasp the influence of consumerism on politics adequately. This is why in analysis of the phenomenon of the aestheticization of politics I had to reach for the Baudrillardian concept of consumption as the realization of the sign value of the good. Intertwining of both stances provides foundations for clarification of the origin and concept of the aestheticization of politics.