Mark Fisher's *Capitalist Realism* Quiz

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Questions and Answers

In what year was the first edition of Capitalist Realism published?

  • 2014 (correct)
  • 2022
  • 2008
  • 2017

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a publication that Mark Fisher wrote for regularly?

  • The Guardian (correct)
  • New Statesman
  • Sight & Sound
  • frieze

What was the name of Mark Fisher’s popular weblog on cultural theory?

  • zer0-books.net
  • k-punk (correct)
  • abstractdynamics.org
  • charcoalstrudio.co.uk

What position did Mark Fisher hold at Goldsmiths, University Of London?

<p>Visiting Fellow (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When did Mark Fisher pass away?

<p>January 2017 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the ISBN of the ebook version of Capitalist Realism?

<p>978 1 80341 431 7 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the imprint of the publishing house that published Capitalist Realism?

<p>Zero Books (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What position did Mark Fisher hold at The Wire magazine?

<p>Acting Deputy Editor (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main idea of this section of the text?

<p>Mark Fisher's upbringing and academic background shaped his unique intellectual journey and the creation of Capitalist Realism. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Mark Fisher's main motivation for challenging traditional modes of writing, scholarship, and thinking?

<p>He felt that traditional methods were not equipped to address the complexities of late-capitalist society. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significance does the CCRU hold in Mark Fisher's intellectual development?

<p>The CCRU was a crucial influence in shaping his unconventional career path and his rejection of traditional academic norms. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested about the impact of tuition fees on British higher education?

<p>Tuition fees contributed to a more market-driven approach to education, which influenced Mark Fisher's experience. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'belated breakthrough' suggest about Mark Fisher’s achievement with Capitalist Realism?

<p>The book was the culmination of a long and difficult journey for Fisher, who had been working towards this goal for many years. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is Capitalist Realism considered an “immature Bildungsroman”?

<p>The book is not a traditional Bildungsroman but rather a deeply insightful exploration of the complexities of late-capitalist culture. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of the phrase 'cybernetic theory-fiction'?

<p>It refers to Fisher's own unique approach to academic writing, which blends theory with fiction. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the text suggest about Mark Fisher's presence on the internet in the early 2000s?

<p>He was one of the first to recognize the potential of the internet as a tool for intellectual engagement and cultural change. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's main argument about capitalist realism in the context of film and media?

<p>Capitalist realism is a form of ideology that subtly reinforces the status quo and consumerism through media. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the film "Wall-E" exemplify capitalist realism?

<p>It criticizes consumerism and corporate greed but ultimately reinforces these practices through its narrative and visuals. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the author mean by "interpassivity" in relation to films like "Wall-E"?

<p>The film allows viewers to passively consume the content while providing a sense of moral satisfaction through its critique of consumerism. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the author contrast capitalist realism with fascism and Stalinism?

<p>Both fascism and Stalinism require explicit propaganda to maintain power, while capitalism can operate successfully without overt advocacy. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the author suggest is the role of capitalist ideology?

<p>To subtly reinforce the status quo and normalize the operations of capital. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does "gestural anti-capitalism" in films actually reinforce capitalist realism?

<p>It allows viewers to feel morally superior without actually challenging the underlying systems they critique. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the author imply about the audience's role in capitalist realism?

<p>The audience is a passive consumer of media that reinforces capitalist ideology. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's main point about "super-identification" with capital?

<p>It can lead to a form of acceptance and normalization of the most exploitative aspects of capitalism. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the defining characteristic of "depressive hedonia"?

<p>A relentless pursuit of pleasure as the only source of fulfillment. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of disciplinary societies as described by Foucault?

<p>Distributed control mechanisms and the blurring of institutional boundaries. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Deleuze argue is the key distinction between disciplinary societies and control societies?

<p>Control societies are characterized by dispersed power structures, unlike disciplinary societies. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the two types of acquittal available within the legal system described by Kafka in The Trial?

<p>Indefinite Postponement and Ostensible Acquittal (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Deleuze believe is the mode of operation of control societies?

<p>Indefinite Postponement, as individuals constantly navigate a prolonged process of control. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the central concept behind the notion of the "Control Addict"?

<p>Someone who is complicit with the control mechanisms and internalizes them as their own. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Kafka's The Trial in relation to control societies?

<p>It provides a fictional example of the functioning of distributed power structures. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main argument of the text?

<p>The transition from disciplinary societies to control societies and its implications. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is capitalist realism's approach to environmental catastrophe, according to the text?

<p>It acknowledges the reality of environmental catastrophe but presents it as a temporary glitch. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the text argue is the core characteristic of capitalism that makes it incompatible with sustainability?

<p>The pursuit of endless growth and expansion. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT mentioned in the text as a way capitalist realism deals with the "Real"?

<p>Ignoring the &quot;Real&quot; completely. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main point of the example of the movie "Wall-E" in the text?

<p>It criticizes the unrealistic optimism of capitalist culture regarding environmental issues. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Green critiques of capitalism?

<p>All of the above. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's main argument regarding the relationship between capitalism and mental health?

<p>Capitalism denies the reality of mental health and treats it as an individual problem. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'Real' as understood in the text?

<p>The experience of trauma and suffering that lies beneath reality. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's purpose in discussing mental health in the context of capitalist realism?

<p>To show how capitalist realism contributes to the normalization of mental health issues. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main criticism of "liberal communists" as presented by the text?

<p>They misunderstand the true nature of capitalism and its ability to adapt. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the problem with resisting "flexibility" and "decentralization"?

<p>It risks undermining the possibility of achieving social change and progress. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of "being smart" as defined by Žižek?

<p>Preference for fixed hierarchies and established structures over spontaneity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the major concern expressed about "liberal communists" in relation to capitalist realism?

<p>Their embrace of &quot;newness&quot; inadvertently reinforces the dominant ideology of capitalism. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the text suggest is the key to overcoming challenges posed by capitalism in a post-Fordist context?

<p>Developing new strategies that are not simply adaptations to existing conditions but challenge the fundamental assumptions of capital. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main argument made about the term "Restoration" in relation to neoliberalism?

<p>It is a corrective to the common perception of neoliberalism as a force of innovation and modernity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main point of contention between "immobilizers" and "liberal communists"?

<p>Whether capitalism can be resisted or overcome. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a reason why the author believes that resisting "the new" is not a viable option for the left?

<p>It fails to acknowledge the powerful influence of technology and automation in shaping the future of work and society. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Capitalist Realism

A theory proposing that capitalism is the only viable political and economic system.

Mark Fisher

A British theorist known for his work on cultural theory and capitalism.

Zero Books

A publishing imprint focused on radical and critical theory.

Cultural Theory

An academic field that explores the relationship between culture and society.

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Radical Thinker

A person who advocates for significant change in society or politics.

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k-punk

Mark Fisher's influential blog on cultural theory and critique.

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Frieze Magazine

A publication focused on contemporary art and culture associated with Mark Fisher.

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Visiting Fellow

A temporary academic position typically held by an expert in a field.

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Gestural Anti-Capitalism

An act or imagery that criticizes capitalism without fundamentally challenging it.

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Wall-E Example

A film showcasing the detrimental impact of consumer capitalism through a future where society is infantilized and obese.

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Interpassivity

The concept where an audience's anti-capitalism is ostensibly performed for them, allowing passive consumption.

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Jean Baudrillard

Philosopher known for his ideas on signs and symbols in relation to society and culture, particularly in terms of media.

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Evil Corporation trope

A common theme in films where big businesses are depicted as villains.

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Slop from cups

Symbolizes mindless consumption in Wall-E, depicting how society has reduced food to unrecognizable mush.

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Žižek’s counsel

Refers to Slovoj Žižek's insights on how capitalism functions without the need for conscious belief in its ideology.

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Non-conformist Intellectual Questing

The process of seeking knowledge outside traditional or mainstream thought.

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CCRU

Cybernetic Culture Research Unit, a group focused on exploring new cultural modes beyond capitalism.

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Accelerationism

The belief that technological progress can lead to social change, often associated with capitalism's critique.

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Late-twentieth-century Template

The dominant paradigms of writing, scholarship, and thinking in the late 1900s.

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Cybernetic Theory-Fiction

A synthesis of cybernetics and speculative fiction, exploring the implications of technology on society.

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Marketisation of Education

The process of introducing market principles into education, often leading to tuition fees and commodification.

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Depressive Hedonia

A state where one is focused solely on pursuing pleasure, feeling something is missing.

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Anhedonia

Inability to experience pleasure or interest in activities that were once enjoyable.

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Control Societies

Societies that utilize dispersed control instead of strict disciplinary measures.

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Ostensible Acquittal

A situation where someone appears acquitted but may face charges later.

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Indefinite Postponement

A legal strategy where judgment is indefinitely delayed.

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Kafka's Influence

Kafka illustrates the nature of control and societal power dynamics.

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Control Addict

A person addicted to the cycle of control, often overwhelmed by it.

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Internal Policing

Self-surveillance and self-regulation instead of external enforcement.

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Liberal Communism

A political stance advocating for social concern and modernized work practices against centralized authority.

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Dynamic Work Practices

Flexible and adaptable working methods that oppose routine and rigidity in the workplace.

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Fortress Bureaucracy

A centralized system characterized by rigid structures, authority, and standard procedures.

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Post-Fordism

An economic system that emphasizes flexibility, decentralization, and spontaneous interaction.

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Neoliberalism and Restoration

The idea that neoliberal politics signify a return of class power rather than true novelty or progress.

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Authentic Dialogues

Genuine conversations that promote cooperation and understanding in contrast to central authority.

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Mobilizers vs. Immobilizers

Mobilizers embrace change and newness, while immobilizers resist and oppose change.

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Capitalist Realism vs. Innovation

The critique of capitalism's appropriation of 'the new' without genuine innovation or revolutionary change.

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The Real

An unrepresentable void within capitalist culture, hinting at deeper truths.

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Environmental Catastrophe

A significant and urgent issue highlighting the unsustainability of capitalism's growth.

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Green Issues

Concerns related to the environment that capitalism seeks to commodify rather than resolve.

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Simulacra

A representation or imitation of a person or thing; reality that masquerades as authentic.

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Growth Fetish

The obsession with constant economic growth that ignores ecological sustainability.

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Mental Health and Capitalism

Mental health is treated as a natural fact, influenced by economic conditions.

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Aporias in Capitalist Realism

Points of confusion or contradiction in capitalist ideology that reveal its weaknesses.

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Study Notes

Book Title and Author

  • Title: Capitalist Realism: Is There No Alternative?
  • Author: Mark Fisher

Summary of the Book

  • The book explores the pervasiveness of capitalist realism in contemporary society.
  • It posits that capitalist ideology has become so ingrained that it is almost impossible to imagine alternatives.
  • The book examines various aspects of capitalist ideology, including the disavowal of alternatives, the relationship between politics and the economy, and the role of education and bureaucracy in reproducing these systems.
  • It analyses how late capitalism affects individuals
  • The book uses examples from popular culture, current events, and historical events to illustrate its arguments.

Key Concepts

  • Capitalist Realism: The pervasive belief that capitalism is the only viable economic and political system, making alternatives seem unimaginable.
  • Immobilization: The condition of seeming resignation and apathy towards political and social issues, often resulting from the perception of the impossibility of change in a capitalist context.
  • Market Stalinism: A system where the outward appearance of freedom and choice exists alongside oppressive bureaucratic structures.
  • Reflexive Impotence: A passive acceptance of the status quo, knowing its negative impacts but believing no viable alternative can be found.
  • The Big Other: A metaphor for the impersonal forces of late capitalism, such as bureaucracy, markets, and the media.

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