Civilization

Debray, Regis

ISBN 10: 1788734033 / ISBN 13: 9781788734035

Published by Verso, 2019

Seller Inventory # E-9781788734035-4-2

Synopsis:

American civilisation's dominance over Europe - and what to do about it

'Civilization' -- a hard term to define. But while every society has a distinctive culture, authentic civilizations must offer those they subjugate an attractive way of life. Their imprint outlasts their imperium.

A century ago, Debray argues, there was a European civilization of which America was an outlying culture; but today the relationship is reversed. 'In 1900, an American of taste was a European in exile; in 2000, a trendy European is a frustrated American - or one waiting for a visa'. Characteristic of American civilization is its three overarching fetishes: space, image and happiness. America is a civilization of space and image, whereas Europe was one of time and writing. And its kitsch infantilism blinds itself to the tragic complexities of human life. A measure of America's success is how its 'globish' jargon has so successfully infiltrated European languages.

For Debray, the dominance of American civilization is a historical fait accompli, yet he sees a model for Europe in Vienna after its exclusion from the German Reich. For decades to come, Europe can still offer a rich cultural seedbed. 'Some will call it decadence, others liberation. Why not both?'

About the Author: Régis Debray is the author of many books, including Media Manifestos, Critique of Political Reason and God: An Itinerary.

Bibliographic Details

Title: Civilization
Publisher: Verso
Publication Date: 2019
Binding: Hardcover
Condition: Very good