David Harvey: The Persistence of Neoliberalism Despite its Loss of Legitimacy (1/2)

Summary

In this discussion, Greg Wilpert interviews David Harvey at the 2019 Left Forum in Brooklyn. They delve into the paradox of neoliberalism's waning popularity yet persistent institutional presence. Harvey argues that neoliberalism remains active, entrenched in global institutions and mindsets. He points out the emerging alliance between right-wing authoritarianism and neoliberalism as a concerning trend. Harvey also discusses how the left may have inadvertently adopted neoliberal principles, exemplified by corporate feminism. He emphasizes the need for a genuine alternative to both neoliberalism and its authoritarian counterpart, suggesting the left must awaken to this opportunity.

Takeaways

• 🌐 Neoliberalism's loss of legitimacy as an ideology is acknowledged, yet its institutionalized forms persist, such as the World Bank, WTO, EU, NAFTA, and TPP.
• 🧠 There's a widespread internalization of neoliberal values, leading to a situation where even critics often propose alternatives within a neoliberal framework.
• 💼 The rise of corporate feminism, which aligns with neoliberal principles of individual entrepreneurship, is critiqued as a form of feminism that overlooks broader social issues.
• 🌱 Neoliberalism's influence is so pervasive that it has affected the left's discourse, including some elements of anarchism that resonate with neoliberal ideas of individual liberty.
• 🔄 The distinction between the logic of capital, represented by tech giants like Google and Apple, and the logic of territory, represented by conservative neoliberalism, is highlighted.
• 🔄 The left is challenged to present a real alternative to both the logic of capital and the conservative form of neoliberalism.
• 📉 Neoliberal policies have led to increased social inequality, contradicting the promise of wealth for all through entrepreneurialism.
• 🏦 The ideology of neoliberalism blames individuals for their poverty, deflecting from systemic issues.
• 🛑 The rise of authoritarianism and neoconservatism is seen as a reaction to maintain social order against the perceived threat of the anti-neoliberal movement.
• ✊ The left has opportunities to counter the current alliance of neoliberalism and right-wing populism but has yet to fully capitalize on this moment.

Q & A

What is the contradiction between the loss of legitimacy of neoliberalism and its persistence in institutionalized forms?

The contradiction lies in the fact that while neoliberalism has lost its legitimacy as an ideology, it continues to persist in its institutionalized forms through structures like the World Bank, WTO, European Union, and NAFTA, making it difficult for nations to deviate from it even if a progressive government comes into power.

How does David Harvey view the current state of neoliberalism?

David Harvey sees neoliberalism as very active and not merely a 'zombie form'. He believes it has been instantiated within many institutions and has become a mindset where even those opposing it often look at alternatives through a neoliberal lens.

What does Harvey mean by saying we have all become neoliberals without knowing it?

Harvey suggests that the neoliberal mindset has become so ingrained in our thinking that even when we object to certain neoliberal activities, we still consider alternatives in a way that is consistent with neoliberal principles.

How has neoliberalism been incorporated into the left, according to Harvey?

Harvey points out that neoliberalism has been incorporated into the left through the adoption of entrepreneurialism and individualism, exemplified by corporate feminism which aligns with neoliberal values.

What is the difference between anti-neoliberal politics and anti-capitalist projects according to Harvey?

Harvey distinguishes between anti-neoliberal politics, which opposes a specific form of capitalism, and anti-capitalist projects, which aim to go beyond capitalism altogether.

How does Harvey describe the relationship between neoliberalism and the current rise of right-wing authoritarianism?

Harvey describes an alliance between right-wing authoritarianism and neoliberalism as troubling and dangerous, suggesting that this combination is being used to maintain social order and perpetuate neoliberalism.

What does Harvey think about the role of the left in the current political landscape?

Harvey believes the left has not yet woken up to the possibility of mounting a counter-attack against the alliance of neoliberalism and authoritarianism, and is currently stuck in terms of presenting a real alternative.

How does Harvey explain the increasing social inequality under neoliberalism?

Harvey explains that neoliberalism, driven by competition and the equalization of the rate of profit, inherently leads to greater social inequality, as the rich grow richer and the poor become relatively poorer.

What does Harvey think is the role of the state in perpetuating neoliberalism?

Harvey suggests that the state, particularly through authoritarian measures and neoconservatism, plays a role in perpetuating neoliberalism by disciplining populations and maintaining social order.

How does Harvey view the impact of neoliberalism on the idea of personal responsibility?

Harvey criticizes neoliberalism for promoting the idea that if you're poor, it's your fault for not investing in your own cultural capital, effectively blaming the victim.

What historical events does Harvey mention as examples of resistance against neoliberalism?

Harvey mentions the anti-globalization movement, such as the protests in Seattle, and the Occupy Wall Street movement as examples of resistance against neoliberalism.