🧵 1/5
A few weeks ago, I picked up Theodor Adorno's "Minima Moralia", started it, but was then distracted, and so put it aside.

Being distracted from Adorno is easily explicable, as I don't think even his admirers would describe him as an easy read.

Nevertheless, I have struggled through some Adorno before, so I went back to "Minima Moralia" more recently and read the collected essays and aphorisms from cover to cover.

I am aware, of course, that were Adorno to be alive today, he would point to my beliefs and preoccupations as evidence of the "damaged life" he describes and deplores. For critical theorists, my reformist social democracy, my belief in the possibility of a science of society, and the joy I take in Richard Strauss, Jean Sibelius, and Kpop are all signs of a pitiful enslavement to a naive positivism and the kitsch culture of capitalism.

Nevertheless, I found "Minima Moralia" rewarding, if at times frustrating, reading. I read the Verso edition; I have heard criticisms of older translations of Adorno, of which this is one, it having been first published in 1974 by New Left Books. In this thread, I'm going to link to a newer translation by Dennis Redmond.

Overall, Adorno puts forward a number of arguments about culture, intellectuals, and commodification under capitalism. For many years from the mid seventies onwards, he was regarded a grouchy elitist whose high modernist cultural critique could, in the light of Birmingham School cultural studies, be seen as at best guilty of a simplistic, uninformed by Gramsci, and demobilisingly moralistic approach to popular culture and at worst of a marxisant high toryism.

These criticisms are not without foundation. Reading "Minima Moralia" can be at times the trying experience of being subjected to page upon page of western marxist curmudgeonry.

Yet some of thoughts on the culture of capitalism struck me as meriting my renewed consideration, even though....

https://www.versobooks.com/products/1035-minima-moralia?srsltid=AfmBOoqFv94K1G91IPlOuAP1ZbMfVnqa-PjpM5dR3FFq2tleYY0p-viE

#TheodorAdorno #MinimaMoralia #CriticalTheory #CulturalCritique #CulturalStudies #Marxism #FrankfurtSchool #Adorno #Philosophy #SocialTheory

Peek into the past with The Problematic Gaze — classic media, fresh critiques!

👁️‍🗨️ What did we miss back then? Find out now.
https://thepodcasting.org/revisiting-classic-media-insights-from-the-problematic-gaze-podcast/

#PodcastAlert #MediaMatters #TheProblematicGaze #ClassicRewind #CulturalCritique

Burning Mao

https://granta.com/burning-mao/

#HackerNews #BurningMao #Granta #Politics #History #China #CulturalCritique #SocialCommentary

When Americana Doesn't Mean American

https://deeprootsmag.org/2017/09/18/over-there-when-americana-doesnt-mean-american/

#HackerNews #Americana #CulturalCritique #GlobalPerspectives #Identity #Politics #DeepRootsMag

Many young people chase what’s considered “cool” today, often leading to poor choices. This video explores how aligning with values that resonate with God can lead to true fulfillment instead of empty pursuits driven by societal pressures. #ChasingTrends #YouthChoices #LifeLessons #FaithOverFashion #CulturalCritique #TrueFulfillment #PositiveVibes #GodlyWisdom #ResistPeerPressure #FindingPurpose

We're Committing Cultural Suicide

https://coreyrobin.com/2025/04/04/were-committing-cultural-suicide/

#HackerNews #CulturalSuicide #CulturalCritique #SocialCommentary #SocietyDiscussion #ThoughtProvoking #CulturalReflection

Slavs and Tatars’ 'Simurgh Self-Help' exhibition challenges Western dominance and promotes unity timesca.com/simurgh-self... #SlavsAndTatars #ArtExhibition #ContemporaryArt #Art #CulturalCritique #UnityInDiversity #CulturalFluidity #SimurghSelfHelp #Dubai #TheThirdLine #CentralAsia #Kazakhstan #UAE

Slavs and Tatars’ 'Simurgh Self-Help' show challenges Western dominance and promotes unity timesca.com/simurgh-self... #SlavsAndTatars #ArtExhibition #ContemporaryArt #Art #CulturalCritique #UnityInDiversity #CulturalFluidity #SimurghSelfHelp #Dubai #TheThirdLine #CentralAsia #Kazakhstan #UAE

Simurgh Self-Help: Slavs and T...

Slavs and Tatars’ "Simurgh Self-Help" exhibition challenges Western dominance through the mystical Simurgh, emphasizing unity, cultural fluidity, and the dissolution of hierarchical nationalism. https://timesca.com/simurgh-self-help-slavs-and-tatars-new-show-rethinks-national-symbolism/ #SlavsAndTatars #ArtExhibition #ContemporaryArt #Art #CulturalCritique #UnityInDiversity #CulturalFluidity #SimurghSelfHelp #Dubai #TheThirdLine #Eurasia #CentralAsia #Kazakhstan #UAE

Which do you like better?
Working on various narratives:
#TheRisingTide
#ContemporaryArt
#SocietalCommentary
#EconomicDisparity
#SocialJusticeArt
#ModernArt
#ArtWithMeaning
#ArtistReflection
#FineArt
#MuseumQuality
#GalleryArt
#ArtCollectors
#ArtExhibition
#CuratedBy
#ArtInspiration
#VisualNarrative
#ArtAndSociety
#ThoughtProvokingArt
#CulturalCritique

Expedition Galaxy: Earth : 2025 : Day 003

Earth : 2025 : Day 003

I have made a most unfortunate discovery as I increase my knowledge of Earth and its inhabitants. The vast majority of humans I have encountered since arriving here have experienced only 30 or fewer revolutions around their radiant star. They seem very unprepared and lacking in, well, almost everything that humans who have completed 30 or more revolutions around their radiant star possess. Yet both those who possess dwelling structures and those who have chosen instead to procure something called “avocado toast” are equally upset and have opposing viewpoints regarding something incredibly important that I personally fear may pose a danger to the safety of the universe. I am grateful for stumbling upon an information terminal called Fox News so that I could be enlightened on this topic.

From the reconnaissance I have collected and observed, I have identified that leaders of the Red, White, and Blue’s people are fearful of a competing faction named “China.” I have also discovered that the Red, White, and Blue organization, where I have set up my home base, is called “America.” These terms and the series of events will require further research, as this particular term seems to apply not only to the faction itself but also to a geographical location that includes many other factions which also claim to be America, yet somehow they are not part of America, and the people are not considered “American.”

This “China” will also require further research and scrutiny, as I am very perplexed by its apparent namesake obsession with delicate vessels the humans use to consume sustenance. There is also the question of why an America with a potential identity crisis feels the need to ban something as specific to the universe as the sound time makes! I was truly confused until I was helped by that information terminal.

I have concluded, America’s concern is valid. It is very apparent that China has developed an insidious covert weapon related to time. So far in my research, every clock device I have personally encountered and examined has been assembled by this China, and they all indeed make the sound: tick-tock.

Addendum: Further research is required regarding gender and how the concept is expressed in human communication. The Fox information terminal provided guidance on the nomenclature of this gender concept, yet it seemed contradictory as the dignitary of the China faction kept being referred to as “she.”

#alienPerspective #cosmicHumor #cosmicObservations #culturalAnalysis #culturalCritique #extraterrestrialSatire #humanBehaviorCritique #humanNature #humorousCommentary #intergalacticCommentary #interstellarSatire #JimmyCarter #MarkTwainSatire #MarkTwainStyle #observationalHumor #philosophicalSatire #satiricalExploration #satiricalTravelogue #socialCommentary #socialSatire #spaceTravelHumor #Writings

Expedition Galaxy: Earth : 2025 : Day 002

Earth : 2025 : Day 002

Today, I achieved a research milestone in this peculiar world that humans call Earth. I discovered that there is indeed a system for acquiring nourishment, but it operates through a curious token based barter system called “money”.

Upon further inspection of my travel package, I realized it includes both instructions and a communication device that was left at my residence that is proving to be most helpful in understanding my surroundings. However, I am having to transcribe these characters carefully, as my translator is having difficulties. My stipend appears to be accessible through flat rectangles with representations of structures and sustenance on them called “debt cards” and “gift cards.”

When I chose the expedition package for touring Earth, I opted for the travel package most similar to what humans on this planet appear to favor; it is called “working class.” The package did come with warnings, however, once my initial stipend of tokens is depleted, I will have no choice but to rely on the goodwill of my neighbors or secure something called a “job.”

I could have had different accessories and activities had I chosen a different package. Evidently, life on Earth is a completely different experience if I had chosen a package that included a rectangle called an “apple”. It includes something called blue bubbles that evidently indicate social status within human hierarchy. I ended up deciding to choose the package that included a rectangular item called an android. It seems to malfunction somewhat frequently. Whether this is due to design or user error will require further research.

This “job” that I must find is evidently the means by which humans obtain more money and gift cards for trading necessities. So far, the most important things for my survival here appear to be a job, money, and gift cards.

The instructions seem very vague, unclear, and somewhat contradictory, as they explain it would prove difficult to obtain a job since I am what is called an undocumented resident. Yet the instructions also advise not to necessarily share that information with my neighbors.

I find this an oddly inefficient system for welcoming newcomers. Neither of the options presented, relying on neighbors or procuring a “job,” seem immediately attainable to me. I do not know my neighbors, and even if I did, I could not tell them why I cannot get this thing called a “job.” Still, I am intrigued, for it seems to hold the key to sustaining life on Earth. I wonder what it looks like.

While I do not yet know any humans personally, I do know where humans gather. Tomorrow, I plan to visit the green area nestled within the gray composite material. The humans who camp there appear to live a most pleasurable existence, enjoying the great outdoors without apparent concern, some drinking that liquid and calling out. Perhaps they have jobs! That makes perfect sense! Of course, they will have insights into how one might obtain a job. They can spend so much time there because they have acquired jobs.

One curious observation puzzles me. The humans who camp outside do not share the same features as those who move purposefully between transport vessels and structures. Nor do they resemble Jimmy Carter, or at least how he was presented him from the images I had seen previously. Yet the campers and the time advanced Jimmy Carter I saw when I arrived at the information station do share a certain similarity, a quality absent in the hurried humans moving about. They seem to be reducing in energy over time. This must be related to their jobs. Is the purpose of humanity to procure a job and then begin the process of decomposition? That hardly seems likely… does it?

#alienPerspective #cosmicHumor #cosmicObservations #culturalAnalysis #culturalCritique #extraterrestrialSatire #humanBehaviorCritique #humanNature #humorousCommentary #intergalacticCommentary #interstellarSatire #JimmyCarter #MarkTwainSatire #MarkTwainStyle #observationalHumor #philosophicalSatire #satiricalExploration #satiricalTravelogue #socialCommentary #socialSatire #spaceTravelHumor #Writings

Expedition Galaxy: Earth : 2025 : Day 001

Earth : 2025 : Day 001

It is day one of my arrival on Earth, and I am eager to document the peculiarities of its local inhabitants. My initial purpose for visiting was a combination of pleasure and research. However, I have also been presented with an opportunity to pay my respects to a human I regard as a friend of the universe. Though I never had the privilege of meeting this human, I am saddened by the missed opportunity. Still, I am grateful to visit during a time when this planet appears focused on his life and legacy. My journey here was inspired by a beautiful message of hope I discovered within a travel advertisement for Earth:

“This is a present from a small distant world, a token of our sounds, our science, our images, our music, our thoughts, and our feelings. We are attempting to survive our time so we may live into yours. We hope someday, having solved the problems we face, to join a community of galactic civilizations. This record represents our hope and our determination and our goodwill in a vast and awesome universe.”

Yet, the shortcomings of this human species have not gone unnoticed. My arrival began in the planet’s stratosphere, where I hitched a ride on an Earth transport vessel identified as Delta 991. The journey offered fascinating insights. The incessant crying (and reaction of others) of the smallest Earthlings aboard signaled that this species is perhaps not as advanced or prepared for galactic unity as their hopeful message suggested. After all, their home planet has completed nearly 48 revolutions around its radiant star since that message was first dispatched. Still, I remain optimistic about witnessing progress in their evolution.

The transport vessel’s disembarkation process revealed other curiosities. Humans appear highly territorial about their personal spaces, and their aggression when exiting the craft suggests potential challenges in integrating with galactic neighbors.

Upon setting foot on solid ground, I was drawn to an information station where I recognized images of the human who conveyed the aforementioned message, Jimmy Carter. Surprisingly, the visual depictions of him received from Earth’s probes in the solar system do not fully match his current appearance. Time, it seems, alters humans in profound ways, a phenomenon I intend to study further.

Carter’s message, though poetic, hinted at significant challenges and dangers on this planet. These issues may extend beyond the minor tensions observed aboard the transport vessel. I regret not meeting this individual, for his words encapsulate a universal desire. However, I remain puzzled by the Earthlings’ choice to disclose such vulnerabilities in what amounts to a galactic travel brochure. Nonetheless, kudos to him for honesty and for setting expectations for my vacation.

The expedition itinerary does appear promising. However, my initial explorations introduced unforeseen challenges. Shortly after leaving the transport nexus, I encountered respiratory distress, likely related to the atmospheric quality. I observed many humans inhaling from small fire sticks, perhaps medicinal devices for those suffering similar ailments. Their usage warrants further investigation.

The travel advertisement mentioned opportunities to witness Earth’s geographic marvels and to spend time beneath the stars, a notion that reminds me of home. Yet, for now, my chosen base overlooks a curated green space surrounded by vast gray composites. Within this green expanse, I noticed temporary human encampments. The occupants appear dedicated to their activities, braving temperatures cooler than 278.71 K (or 22°F in local terms) while seemingly fasting intermittent unpredictable times and at times exhibiting altered states of consciousness after consuming liquids. Could this be a religious observance or a ritual honoring a deity? Additional research is necessary.

Warnings about aggressive inhabitants from various factions were also included in my intelligence brief. These factions can often be identified by their distinctive calls and appearances. I am relieved to have packed my human repellent spray. Initially, I had prepared for encounters with a predator called Ursus, but updated intelligence suggested they are no longer apex predators, at least relative to the humans species.

Finally, I noted the prevalence of tall poles adorned with colorful fabric, a seemingly significant symbol. I deduced that I have landed in a territory marked red, white, and blue. Encouragingly, this appears to align with the region Jimmy Carter inhabited, which suggests it is Earth’s most welcoming zone for outsiders. After all, why extend an interstellar invitation if not from a place of warmth and openness?

As I close my first day observations, I am experiencing an unfamiliar sensation, hunger. My usual state of being does not include such needs, but I trust humans have systems in place to address these basic requirements. Perhaps this explains the communal efforts of the green expanse ‘dwellers’ or ‘campers’. I may have confused this with ‘homeless’, but I will refine my understanding of human language and social systems during my stay. For now, I rest, eager to continue exploring tomorrow. I hope to grasp the full nuances of this civilization or perhaps, more fittingly, this habitat of humanity.

#alienPerspective #cosmicHumor #cosmicObservations #culturalAnalysis #culturalCritique #extraterrestrialSatire #humanBehaviorCritique #humanNature #humorousCommentary #intergalacticCommentary #interstellarSatire #JimmyCarter #MarkTwainSatire #MarkTwainStyle #observationalHumor #philosophicalSatire #satiricalExploration #satiricalTravelogue #socialCommentary #socialSatire #spaceTravelHumor #Writings

💡 "Los extremos nunca fueron lo suyo. Lo original siempre fue el camino, aunque el país no lo entienda. #LiteraryReflections en gonzo-gonzo.com 🎤"
#IronyInLife
#LiteraryReflections
#WritingInspiration
#CulturalCritique
#BohemianMemories
#ThePowerOfWords
#LostInspiration
#SocialCriticism
#CreativeBlock
#DigitalStorytelling
Ironía
Escritor
Creatividad
Reflexión
Bohemia
Cultura
Cambios de vida
Desafíos
Sociedad
Corrupción
https://www.gonzo-gonzo.com/literatura/item/810-ironia

@MisuseCase @MonniauxD Thank you. Even though it is quite common knowledge what you write, still, this post has really triggered some insights in me. I think Daniel Quinn has done a brilliant job on revealing our anthropocentric thinking to us (as the civilized version of Homo sapiens). His works are such amazing mirror for us as a species. However, I think he's had a real blind spot when it comes to patriarchy in 'how things came to be this way', i.e. the ecological crisis we're facing, taking wrong conclusions regarding the 1) cause of and 2) the solution for overpopilation as a consequence. (I disagree with you that overpopulation is not an issue but would say that mainly rich countries are massively overpopulated, rich EU countries, the US). Here Quinn's analyses are clearly under-complex. He's missing a layer of power in his analysis: 1. humans over rest of the living world (Quinn), 2. men (the sex) over everything. But I have not yet read all of his works yet to be fair.
#danielquinn #culturalcritique

🧩📜 "Álvaro Sánchez nos invita a unir las piezas de su collage cultural en Gonzo-Gonzo. Ven y completa el puzle." 🖋🔲
#brushstrokes
#figurative
#outsiderart
#mixmediaonpaper
#artbrut
#outsiderart
#humanfigure
#alvarosanchezart
#sanchezisdead
#artoninstagram
#ContemporaryArt
#PopArt
#ArtGallery
#MixedMedia
#ArtisticExpression
#VisualArts
#CollageArt
#ArtCommentary
#CulturalCritique
#ArtisticInnovation
#Expressionism
#ModernArt
#ArtCollector
#AbstractExpressionism

https://www.gonzo-gonzo.com/relatos/las-paredes-hablan/item/721-poema-y-espejo

🚨📌 "El orden y el caos colisionan en la última pieza de Álvaro Sánchez. Experimenta esta lucha en Gonzo-Gonzo." #MixedMedia #ArtisticExpression 🌀✖️
#brushstrokes
#figurative
#outsiderart
#mixmediaonpaper
#artbrut
#outsiderart
#humanfigure
#alvarosanchezart
#sanchezisdead
#artoninstagram
#ContemporaryArt
#PopArt
#ArtGallery
#MixedMedia
#ArtisticExpression
#VisualArts
#CollageArt
#ArtCommentary
#CulturalCritique
#ArtisticInnovation
#Expressionism
#ArtWorld
https://www.gonzo-gonzo.com/relatos/las-paredes-hablan/item/716-amor-chino

For my Mastodon followers and friends, here is a free "friend link" to my latest short story/flash fiction piece, "Unusual Crimes," on Medium. This will get you 'round the firewall: https://medium.com/@daisybrain/unusual-crimes-f3575b0facc5?sk=4d82df3b7c77f06fb4ff0935865d5bfa

Love,
Eric
#shortstory #flashfiction #humor #parody #math #culturalcritique

Animal noises.

#cartoon #culturalcritique #comic #bandedessinée