How does love resist the moral logic of merit and productivity that dominates neoliberal societies? Neoliberalism is an economic theory that emphasizes the importance of free markets and individual responsibility. This theory encourages competition and rewards those who work hard and succeed. It also tends to view romantic relationships as a form of transaction, where each partner brings something valuable to the table.
Love often defies these rules. Love can be unconditional and irrational, making it impossible to measure by traditional metrics like money or success. Here are three ways love resists neoliberal values:
1. Love transcends hierarchies. In a neoliberal society, people are expected to compete for resources and status. But love challenges this hierarchy by treating everyone as equal partners.
When lovers express their feelings for each other without regard for social class, race, or gender, they undermine the system's power structure.
2. Love rejects selfishness. In a neoliberal economy, individuals focus on maximizing personal gain. But love requires generosity and empathy, which challenge this attitude. Lovers may prioritize the needs of their partner over their own desires or comfort. They may sacrifice time and energy to support each other. This behavior can have positive effects beyond the relationship, promoting community-building and solidarity.
3. Love subverts materialism. Neoliberal capitalism values things and services over human connection. But love offers an alternative worldview. Lovers value one another based on intangible qualities like kindness and trustworthiness, not on financial success. By valuing emotional connections, lovers resist the materialist impulse that defines much of modern life.
Love is a powerful force that challenges the dominant ideology of our times. It shows us that relationships can thrive outside of the narrow constraints of economic logic. While neoliberalism emphasizes competition and individual achievement, love celebrates connection and mutual care. As such, it offers an important counterpoint to the values of contemporary society.
How does love resist the moral logic of merit and productivity that dominates neoliberal societies?
Love is an emotion that often goes beyond material benefits and rewards, making it difficult for individuals who are driven by these factors to understand its value. In neoliberal societies where merit and productivity are highly valued, love may be seen as irrational and impractical, leading to difficulties in forming and sustaining romantic relationships.