Speed and Politics (Semiotext(e) / Foreign Agents) [Paperback]

Paul Virilio (Author), Mark Polizzotti (Translator), Benjamin H. Bratton (Introduction)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 13, 2006 | Series: Semiotext(e) / Foreign Agents

Speed and Politics (first published in France in 1977) is the matrix of Virilio's entire work. Building on the works of Morand, Marinetti, and McLuhan, Virilio presents a vision more radically political than that of any of his French contemporaries: speed as the engine of destruction. Speed and Politics presents a topological account of the entire history of humanity, honing in on the technological advances made possible through the militarization of society. Paralleling Heidegger's account of technology, Virilio's vision sees speed--not class or wealth--as the primary force shaping civilization. In this "technical vitalism," multiple projectiles--inert fortresses and bunkers, the "metabolic bodies" of soldiers, transport vessels, and now information and computer technology--are launched in a permanent assault on the world and on human nature. Written at a lightning-fast pace, Virilio's landmark book is a split-second, overwhelming look at how humanity's motivity has shaped the way we function today, and what might come of it.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Paul Virilio was born in 1932 and has published a wide range of books, essays, and interviews grappling with the question of speed and technology, including Speed and Politics, The Aesthetics of Disappearance, and The Accident of Art, all published by Semiotext(e).

Product Details

• Paperback: 174 pages
• Publisher: Semiotext(e); 2nd edition (October 13, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1584350407
• ISBN-13: 978-1584350408
• Product Dimensions: 6 x 0.5 x 9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #629,367 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Slowly speeding August 25, 2006

By Peter B

Format:Paperback

"Speed and Politics" is an insightful post-modern examination into what I call 'exponential progress'. In one part, Virilio suggests that since society is increasingly less patient (mostly as a result of technology), people in general are less willing to spend the time to read or investigate their oppressive situations (probably because they were overly busy shopping and thinking about the next best and greatest thing to own) and, as such, require a quick dose of knowledge. To do this, the philosopher/politician/revolutionary must boil down the essence of an idea and serve it before the attention of the people diminishes into thoughtless, emotion-driven consumption once again.

The book is short. However, each sentence has the brilliance of two pages. Read slow.

3 of 8 people found the following review helpful

3.0 out of 5 stars This book has nothing to do with Foucault January 22, 2004

By A Customer

Format:Paperback

I don't know if there is some bug in Amazon's system, but the three reviewers do not appear to be review Virilio's "Speed and Politics."

2 of 8 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Insightful Interviews December 5, 2000

By Rabble

Format:Paperback

I found this was a very interesting series of interviews with Foucault by a journalist from the Italian Communist Party. His discussions about social change and marxism were enlightening. I think this kind of interview format offers a refreshing and different perspective on his work compaired reading his books.