Sociologist Hartmut Rosa: 'Everyone assumes they're being taken for a ride'
Sociologist Hartmut Rosa discusses modern man's estrangement from the world and the implications of societal acceleration on meaningful relationships.
In an interview, sociologist Hartmut Rosa explores the ongoing discordance of modern humans with their world, a theme deeply rooted in the Critical Theory traditions of Theodor W. Adorno and Max Horkheimer. His work has identified societal acceleration as a key factor that complicates the establishment of significant and 'resonant' interpersonal relationships, thus highlighting a fundamental aspect of contemporary life that many individuals grapple with. Rosa’s previous works, including 'Acceleration: Change in Modern Time Structures' and 'Resonance: A Sociology of World-Relationship', have positioned him as a leading voice in modern societal diagnostics in Germany.
Among prominent sociologists, Rosa stands out for his relatable and fearless observations on pressing societal issues. He links the current inability to streamline bureaucratic processes with the challenges faced in various societal spheres, including the world of sports, exemplified by the contentious implementation of video evidence in the Bundesliga. This perspective underscores how closely intertwined different layers of societal frustration are, revealing a deeper-rooted crisis in the functioning of modern society.
Overall, Rosa advocates for a reevaluation of the way individuals engage with bureaucratic and institutional structures, suggesting that they contribute to the pervasive sense of alienation. His insights provoke essential conversations about how society can better navigate the complexities of modern life, emphasizing the need for resonant human connections in an increasingly accelerated world.