Acceleration, Alienation, and Resonance: Towards a New Theory of Modernity

In the contemporary world, the forces of acceleration, alienation, and resonance have emerged as pivotal themes in our comprehension of modernity. These concepts elucidate the intricate dynamics that shape our lives in the 21st century, offering valuable insights into our navigation of an ever-evolving social terrain.

Hartmut Rosa's work, rooted in theoretical structures focusing on modern acceleration, delves into the kinds of alienation that manifest in the modern world as a consequence of this acceleration. His observations regarding the means of transcending an alienated relationship, both in the social sphere and the nature-humanity connection, under the concept of resonance, allow for the exploration of themes such as modern temporal structures (acceleration), as well as the asynchrony between politics and economics and the impediments to emancipatory possibilities (alienation). Furthermore, they offer avenues for addressing modern pathologies (resonance), all of which will prove essential in Rosa's diagnosis and critique.

These themes share underlying inquiries into the origins of modernity, its attributes, and its current state. Rosa's work reveals two distinct phases: the first, closely aligned with social theory in the case of acceleration, denotes the rapid pace of change across various dimensions of human existence in the context of modernity. Technological advancements, communication systems, and global interconnectedness have transformed our world into a high-speed environment. This acceleration has profound effects on our daily lives, from the way we work and communicate to the manner in which we consume information. The relentless pursuit of progress and innovation has engendered an ever-evolving landscape that challenges traditional notions of stability and predictability.

The second phase, more aligned with normative philosophy, emerges in discussions of alienation and resonance. It becomes apparent that in a world where our lives are often mediated by screens and algorithms, the sense of disconnection from the physical and social realms can be palpable. The digital age has introduced new forms of alienation, such as estrangement from one's true self, an escalating disconnection from nature, and a prevailing sense of isolation despite heightened digital connectivity. Understanding and addressing these forms of alienation constitute pressing concerns for contemporary society.

In contrast to the isolating effects of alienation, the concept of resonance has gained significance as we strive to establish meaningful connections and shared experiences in the 21st century. Resonance embodies the notion of harmonious interactions, empathy, and shared values. It explores the potential for human connections in an era when technology can both divide and unite us. Resonance underscores our inherent yearning for community, solidarity, and a sense of belonging, even as our lives become increasingly digital and global.

In our exploration of the intricate interaction between acceleration, alienation, and resonance, this article seeks to shed light on how these issues intertwine and exert influence on our understanding of late modernity (characterized as the ongoing extension of modernity rather than a transition to a new era labeled as postmodernity).

Through empirical analysis and critical reflection, I aim to delve into the multifaceted impact of these forces on individuals and societies, thereby providing a comprehensive and nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the 21st century.

Acceleration: The Pulse of Late Modern Life

Acceleration is an undeniable feature of liquid modernity. We all live in a hurry, with no time for anything; everything around us becomes a "priority," yet not everything truly is. This hectic and exhausting pace of life is situated within the accelerated rate of technological innovation, instant dissemination of information, and the continuous whirlwind of societal changes. In the context of late modernity, acceleration reflects an unceasing pursuit of progress and efficiency. However, it also introduces a paradox: as we aspire to greater efficiency, we often find ourselves feeling increasingly time-strapped. The pace of life quickens, presenting challenges in finding a balance between the desire for speed and the need for reflection. Moreover, it has developed in us an ability for intolerance, nearly undeniable impatience, and a limited understanding of others' diverse realities or truths.

The accelerated pace of life and the seemingly "unnecessary" need to be ahead of events lead people into a whirlwind from which we cannot escape, and, what is more, jeopardizes our mental health and familial and professional harmony in the present day. Why is it so difficult for us to live one day at a time? Furthermore, why can't we give each moment of our day the space it requires for us to find mental, physical, spiritual, and better relational balance? The hamster wheel metaphor best illustrates the image that could aptly depict how most people live today: racing towards nowhere with an inexplicable hurry to reach an unknown goal.

The peculiar feeling that we impose upon ourselves to be time-controlled, for example, I have acquired the personal ability to time myself to such an extent that I have learned and professionalized my ability to accomplish tasks in much less time than before without no need. Why do I accelerate my pace? There is no reason or perhaps there exists within this new reality where it is preferable to accomplish much, to meet all obligations, regardless of whether what we do has the depth of analysis it requires. Why? Well, because we live spinning in that hamster wheel due to the unease of moving more slowly, and the fear of stopping and not knowing what to do if we get off it. This is particularly true in a world subject to screens and the need to show others (family, friends, and the general public) that we are capable of everything, that our way of life is correct, and, above all, that we are "highly productive." Some social media platforms like TIK TOK or WhatsApp currently allow you to watch videos at an accelerated pace or listen to audio at double the normal speed, which is a prime example of accelerated thinking syndrome.

We live in such a mad rush, doing, carrying, bringing, and restarting that anxiety has become acceptable because it is deemed productive, especially in a world that emphasizes proving to ourselves and others that we can accomplish everything. Imagine this: there are job postings where the ability to work under pressure is highly valued and appreciated.

Some might argue that living in a world subject to screens and the need to show that we are highly productive is a sound approach to life. However, the truth is that many of our actions end up being superficial, and it seems like we live in a world where engaging with something that requires a process is a waste of time.

But since when did resting, taking the time to admire what surrounds us, or using the appropriate time to carry out a good process of things become a waste of time? Why do we have to characterize ourselves as multitaskers when, in reality, we should be able to dedicate our attention to each one according to its need or requirement, and above all, without haste?

Alienation in the Age of Liquid Modernity

Alienation, a concept deeply rooted in classical sociology and critical theory, remains relevant in our late modern world. In the context of late or liquid modernity, alienation extends beyond its historical economic origins. People often experience a sense of estrangement from their surroundings, their work, and even their own identity. This modern alienation arises from the lack of harmony between the accelerated pace of life and our innate human need for connection and meaning. In a rapidly changing world like ours, individuals can struggle with feelings of isolation and disconnection. It is, in fact, a phenomenon that is fundamentally connected to the massive structural transformations that have taken place in the modern world, such as the shift from traditional to liquid modernity.

In scholarly discussions, there is a prevailing emphasis on examining the dynamics of alienation concerning the relationship between individuals and their surroundings. However, the application of this concept to larger entities, such as social classes, religious, ethnic, or gender groups, demands a closer examination, contingent upon the specific scope of "analysis" in question. What I aspire to establish is a sociological framework dedicated to exploring the intricate nuances of our interactions with and experiences of the world.

Even when concentrating on the realm of self-world relations, it is abundantly clear that social contexts and collective identities exert profound influences on these connections. For instance, one's societal status significantly impacts their perception and responses to the world, just as religious and gender considerations wield substantial influence.

In the evolving landscape of gender discourse, traditional constructs of masculinity characterized by phrases like "boys don't cry" and "they don't feel pain" are being deconstructed and reevaluated. Similarly, women are increasingly acknowledged for their emotional intelligence, attunement to their bodies, and capacity for empathy. It is crucial to emphasize that such traits are not exclusive to any particular gender. These transformative shifts in societal perspectives fundamentally alter how individuals relate to the world and each other. While historical Western patriarchal societies may have propelled men toward reified and alienated interactions with the world, a more contemporary and inclusive viewpoint recognizes a diverse array of gender identities, each contributing unique ways of engaging with and experiencing the world, thereby fostering a more harmonious and interconnected society.

As we delve into the realm of critiquing ideologies related to modern alienation, we must acknowledge the contentious and multifaceted nature of the concept of ideology. Indeed, it is not merely a matter of debate but is inherently contentious at its core. To elucidate this perspective, it is essential to break down ideology into two distinct levels.

The first level of ideological analysis concerns the problem of the erroneous attribution of genuine issues. This involves the misalignment of real experiences and problems with their causal factors. For instance, when navigating the turbulent landscape of contemporary politics, we encounter numerous cases where the population is dissatisfied with the actions of public officials working to uphold the laws, policies, administration, and, in general, the essential aspects of their regions' proper functioning. Upon closer examination, we find individuals who resort to desperate measures, such as supporting "change" governments not out of a belief in their political vision but merely to avoid voting for a particular political candidate. People often support complex political agendas without even knowing the background or history of the individuals leading these parties. It is in these scenarios that a palpable sense of alienation becomes evident. These individuals perceive themselves as strangers to the political sphere, lamenting their lack of recognition and influence within the sociopolitical establishment. Yet, they articulate their struggle to make their voices heard, which has become increasingly direct with the widespread use of social media. Simultaneously, these same individuals suspect that the political decisions impacting them are primarily shaped by market-driven logics, further reinforcing their sense of alienation. These feelings of alienation are undeniably justified and deeply rooted in genuine experiences.

However, it is at this point that the influence of ideology becomes apparent, distorting the narrative by incorrectly attributing the source of this lack of resonance. Instead of examining the structural issues causing alienation, ideologies often shift the blame onto foreigners, refugees, and minority groups. This attribution is not only erroneous but also hazardous. In this context, the suppression of the voices of marginalized "others" and the construction of barriers against the outside world do not alleviate widespread alienation; rather, they serve to exacerbate it, perpetuating a cycle of discord and division.

Capitalism generates and reinforces a particular paradigm for life and the pursuit of what we perceive and accept as the "good life." This paradigm adheres to the principles of dynamic stabilization and acceleration and can be encapsulated in what Hartmut Rosa calls the "three A's approach." This approach manifests as an incessant quest to expand the horizons of what is accessible, attainable, and available in our lives.

This perpetual expansionist mindset is the driving force behind ongoing scientific discoveries, the grand promises of technological advancement, and the relentless accumulation of wealth. Paradoxically, the same strategy that seeks to broaden the scope of possibilities also unintentionally acts as a catalyst for alienation. The pursuit of the "three A's" inadvertently transforms the world into a cold, unfeeling, and unresponsive space.

Therefore, at the very core of liquid modernity, a deep and intricate misattribution thrives, obscuring the delicate balance between individual aspirations and the collective experience of the world. This profound and multifaceted ideological distortion underscores the urgency of critically analyzing contemporary ideologies in the context of alienation, with the hope of fostering a more inclusive, harmonious, and receptive society. It is crucial to recognize that while we may pursue personal well-being as a guiding principle for success in our lives, we will always depend on our surroundings to thrive. These surroundings include people, experiences, and things. This, in turn, means that everything we do to achieve our goals not only affects us but often has collateral consequences. It is essential to be empathetic and to step into the shoes of others, not just to see how they fit but to walk in them, understanding that we need to be mindful not only of ourselves but also of those around us. This perspective adds more meaning and coherence to our actions and ensures that we care not only for ourselves but also for the well-being of others.

Resonance: A Path to Reconnection

In response to the challenges posed by acceleration and alienation, the concept of resonance emerges as a potential remedy. Resonance involves cultivating a deeper connection with the world around us and within ourselves. This means slowing down, not for procrastination, but to be more attentive to our surroundings and those around us. It's about being able to perceive ourselves better and accept who we are, cherishing our nature and being. This includes actively engaging with our environment and fostering mindfulness. Instead of simply reacting to the frantic pace of modern life, resonance encourages us to proactively seek harmony and tune into the world.

How many times, away from screens, have we realized that life is not truly the self-representation we post online? How many times today, yesterday, or perhaps this week, did our child tell us something, and we were there, but not truly present, unable to recall what was shared? Curiously, we often use the phrase "quality time." Is there, in fact, any time with our loved ones that is not considered of quality?

By embracing resonance, we can counteract the alienation that often accompanies acceleration. This approach allows us to rediscover meaning in our lives and reconnect with our surroundings and our identity. It empowers us to shape our experiences in the modern world with a sense of agency and purpose, something we urgently need to live better. Living in resonance is something we can all achieve, even amidst the chaos and daily routines that often make us feel without peace or rest. Balancing different dimensions of life, such as family, friends, leisure time, spirituality, and work, is essential to feeling unified and achieving resonance with life, and therefore with ourselves.

Incorporating resonance into our lives entails embracing mindfulness, appreciating the present moment, and fostering genuine connections with others. It requires an intentional shift away from the frantic pace of existence and toward a more profound sense of fulfillment and authenticity. By weaving resonance into our daily lives, we can foster a more balanced and harmonious relationship with the world. Sharing with others enriches us, broadens our perspective, expands our horizons, and takes us to places we might not have imagined. Coherence is crucial to living in resonance. It means that our thoughts and feelings should be reflected in our actions and lifestyle. Acting differently from what we truly feel creates a gap from resonance.

Caring for small attitudes and routines can lead to positive changes and help us continue our journey with satisfaction, hope, and respect for ourselves and others. Living in resonance has a significant impact on our lives, but above all, on the evolution of the world and societies.

The concepts of acceleration, alienation, and resonance represent three critical dimensions of liquid modernity. While acceleration propels the rapid changes that define our era, alienation underscores the challenges of finding connection and meaning amidst a relentless pace. On the other hand, resonance offers a path to reconnection and balance in the face of these challenges.

How are we going to approach our journey through this world from now on when reflecting on these three aspects? I would like to think that these words contained here serve to touch and impact your life projects.

Understanding these concepts provides a framework for navigating the complexities of modern life. It encourages us to critically examine the impacts of acceleration and alienation on our well-being while actively seeking resonance as a means to reconnect with the world in a more meaningful and rewarding way. In the quest for balance in the modern world, these ideas offer valuable ways to understand an increasingly bewildering world and, why not, be creators of possible solutions.

Resonance is the silent language that harmonizes the soul with the world, where moments of presence become the symphony of connection, and in the cadence of mindfulness, we find the music of reconnection.