Die Zerstörung der Vernunft: Robert Misiks „Die Kunst des Widerstands“
Summary
Wiener Publizist Robert Miesig discusses his new essay collection, arguing that the radical right is destroying reason through conspiracy theories and aggressive discourse. He advocates for a "radical left-liberalism" that defends complexity and enlightenment, explicitly rejecting left-populist strategies that mimic right-wing simplification. Miesig contends that countering authoritarian irrationalism requires a committed defense of rationality and nuanced thinking rather than adopting the opponent's rhetorical tactics.
Topics discussed
Introduction: The rise of radical right and conspiracy theories
Robert Miesig and the destruction of reason
Two forms of rationality destruction: daily and radical
Miesig's open social democratism and argumentative style
The need for a radical left-liberalism
Critique of left-populist concepts by Laclau and Wagenknecht
Why adopting right-wing rhetoric fails to win voters
The risk of simplification alienating complex-thinking voters
The book as a diagnosis of the present and guide to resistance
Learning from Orwell and Pasolini on resistance
Conclusion: Enlightenment as the only defense against irrationalism
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