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The Palliative Society

Pain Today

Byung-Chul Han author Daniel Steuer translator

Format:Hardback

Publisher:John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Published:16th Jul '21

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The Palliative Society cover

This book delves into the fear of pain in modern societies, examining how it affects personal relationships and politics. The Palliative Society offers a critical perspective on contemporary life.

In The Palliative Society, the author explores the pervasive algophobia that characterizes modern societies, highlighting a widespread fear of pain that leads to the avoidance of difficult emotions and discussions. This fear not only influences personal relationships but also seeps into the political realm, resulting in a palliative approach to governance that shies away from necessary reforms due to the potential discomfort they may cause. As conflicts and controversies become increasingly sidelined, society finds itself trapped in a cycle of superficiality, where genuine progress is stifled by the desire to maintain comfort.

The emergence of the coronavirus pandemic further exacerbates this condition, transforming the palliative society into one focused solely on survival. The pandemic forces a confrontation with mortality, as the previously repressed concept of death becomes unavoidable. In this new reality, the prioritization of life at any cost leads to a troubling sacrifice of what makes life meaningful. As the narrative unfolds, the author critiques the societal implications of this survivalist mentality, urging readers to reflect on the value of pain and the necessity of facing uncomfortable truths.

The Palliative Society serves as a thought-provoking analysis of contemporary cultural dynamics, appealing to a diverse audience interested in understanding the complexities of modern existence. The author's unique perspective invites readers to reconsider their relationship with pain, love, and the essence of life itself, making it a compelling read for anyone seeking deeper insights into the human condition.

ISBN: 9781509547234

Dimensions: 226mm x 145mm x 18mm

Weight: 227g

76 pages