Public Things

In Public Things, Bonnie Honig examines the vital role of public objects in democracy, critiquing neoliberalism's impact on civic life and community.

In Public Things: Democracy in Disrepair, Bonnie Honig explores the intricate relationship between democracy and the concept of public things. Drawing on the theories of D.W. Winnicott and Hannah Arendt, the book develops a political lexicon that addresses contemporary issues such as indigenous activism, racial inequality, and the essence of democratic citizenship. Honig emphasizes the importance of care, concern, hope, and play, weaving these themes into her analysis of modern events and various forms of cultural expression, including literature, film, and political theory.

The text critiques the prevailing neoliberal ideology, which prioritizes efficiency as the cornerstone of political and economic success. Honig questions the implications of a political landscape where state bureaucracy is deemed inefficient, while corporate bureaucracy escapes scrutiny. Through Public Things, she raises a critical inquiry: can democracy thrive without robust public services, spaces, and utilities? With a focus on the objects that constitute democratic life, she argues that these public things are essential for fostering a sense of community and belonging among citizens.

Moreover, Honig delves into the historical context of public things, highlighting the racial dynamics at play, such as the appropriation of public lands from indigenous peoples and the unequal access to public goods. By integrating the insights of Arendt and Winnicott, she underscores the material and psychological foundations necessary for achieving object permanence and the reparative work needed to advance a more equitable democracy.