Marxismo e psicanálise freudiana: Fundamentos da crítica ecológica da sociedade por Herbert Marcuse

Abstract

The german philosopher Herbert Marcuse develops an ecological critique of advanced capitalist society through the appropriation of concepts from Marx and Freudian psychoanalysis. The objective of this work is to understand the theoretical foundations that compose this critique. To achieve this objective, the argumentative path followed by the philosopher is examined in detail, exposing the roots of this critique. He addresses the effects of the repressive instinctual modifications carried out by the productive system for the purpose of maintaining the established order. He also shows how these modifications have created a scenario of general destructiveness, which is likewise very useful for maintaining the prevailing order. Initially, an investigation is conducted into how Marcuse makes use of Freudian concepts in his theory. He explores drive theory in order to introduce a concern with the individual, which does not exist in Marxist thought. Subsequently, it is discussed how Marxism constitutes the background of the entire argumentative chain developed by the philosopher, insofar as he is a non-orthodox Marxist thinker. The relationship between these two influences defines Marcuse's ecological critique of society. Therefore, in order to understand this critique, it is essential to understand the dynamics that Marcuse establishes between them. He explores the mechanisms of domination of this society in order to expose its contradictions, between what is proclaimed that the individual can be and what it is effectively possible for him to be. Likewise, he examines the historical possibilities for overcoming the high levels of repression and alienated labor by relating the liberation of individuals to the liberation of nature. Marcuse understands that, although a certain degree of instinctual repression is necessary for the civilizing process, this repressive structure is no longer justified in view of the advance of technical progress, and greater freedom is possible through the pursuit of the achievements permitted by humanitarian progress. Marcuse sees in nature a resistance to the intentions of capitalist exploitation and expansion, both objectively and subjectively. Through the human appropriation of nature, the environment becomes a source for the recovery of aesthetic qualities of a sensual order. Aesthetic qualities are essentially non-violent and non-dominating, and are capable of eliminating aggressiveness, institutionalized destructiveness and, ultimately, the unhappiness and frustration that characterize repressive society. They provide the pacification of human existence. Thus, nature becomes the appropriate means for human gratification and a new relationship between nature and humanity is established. In this final stage, the concepts mobilized by Marcuse that are necessary to bring about this change in society are presented, such as radical change and the radical character structure. The possibilities for reversing a society oriented toward productivity into a society that benefits human fulfillment and happiness depend on the construction of a new sensibility that guides this transformation. A new sensibility that acts as a new reason, different from the current technological reason that deepens the domination of individuals.