What is the core concept of neo-feudalism?

Neo-feudalism, also known as new feudalism, is a theoretical concept describing a contemporary resurgence of policies in governance, economy, and public life that are reminiscent of those found in historical feudal societies.

What are the defining characteristics of neo-feudal societies as described in the text?

Key characteristics include unequal rights and legal protections for common people versus nobility, the dominance of society by a small and powerful elite, a lack of social mobility, and relationships of lordship and serfdom between the elite and the populace, where the former are rich and the latter are poor.

To which historical period does the term neo-feudalism primarily refer?

Generally, the term neo-feudalism refers to 21st-century forms that, in some respects, resemble the societal models of medieval Western Europe.

How was the term 'neo-feudalism' utilized in its early applications?

In its early use, the term was employed as a critique directed at both the political Left and the political Right.

What concept did Jürgen Habermas introduce that relates to neo-feudalism?

Jürgen Habermas used the term "Refeudalisierung" (refeudalization) in his 1962 work, *The Structural Transformation of the Public Sphere*, to criticize the privatization of communication, which he believed had eroded the Enlightenment-era public sphere. Although he did not use the term 'neo-feudalism,' his ideas are considered similar.

How did Immanuel Wallerstein describe neo-feudalism in his views on global development?

Immanuel Wallerstein listed neo-feudalism among variants of global development, defining it as regions characterized by autarky (self-sufficiency), a localized hierarchy, and the availability of high-tech goods exclusively for the elite.

Is neo-feudalism exclusively an economic concept?

No, while the concept of neo-feudalism often focuses on economics, it is not limited to it and can encompass broader aspects of governance and public life.

What contemporary issues are associated with the idea of neo-feudalism?

Issues claimed to be associated with neo-feudalism include class stratification, globalization, neoconservative foreign policy, the influence of multinational corporations, and 'neo-corporatism'.

What specific aspect of contemporary society did Clifford Shearing's theory of neo-feudalism highlight?

Clifford Shearing's theoretical approach focused on the emergence of 'gated' domains of mass private property, drawing attention to how private entities control and restrict access in various ways.

What criticism did Lucia Zedner level against Shearing's use of the neo-feudalism concept?

Lucia Zedner argued that Shearing's application of neo-feudalism was too limited in scope, suggesting it did not sufficiently draw parallels with earlier governance structures and that more definitive endorsements of the comparison were needed.

According to Bruce Baker, what defines the order in neo-feudalism?

Bruce Baker described neo-feudalism as an order defined by commercial interests and administered across large areas. He also noted that this perspective doesn't fully capture the extent of cooperation between state and non-state policing.

What power dynamic did Randy Lippert and Daniel O'Connor identify as significant in neo-feudalism?

Lippert and O'Connor highlighted that corporations possess powers similar to those traditionally held by states in terms of governance, which is a key aspect of the comparison to feudalism.

What economic shift did Sighard Neckel argue represented a 'refeudalisation'?

Sighard Neckel argued that the rise of financial-market-based capitalism in the late twentieth century signified a 'refeudalisation' of the economy.

How does Marina Caparini connect the widening wealth gap to neo-feudalism?

Marina Caparini argues that the widening wealth gap, particularly when poor and marginalized people are excluded from state security provisions, can lead to neo-feudalism. She cites South Africa as an example where this has already occurred.

What does Ian Loader suggest is a consequence of the commodification of policing in a neo-feudal context?

Ian Loader suggests that the commodification of policing is a primary characteristic of neo-feudalism, signifying the end of shared citizenship as security becomes a purchasable service rather than a universal right.

According to Martha K. Huggins, what is a primary characteristic of neo-feudalism concerning individuals' lives?

Martha K. Huggins identifies that a primary characteristic of neo-feudalism is the increasing governance of individuals' public lives by business corporations.

What specific need of business corporations does John Braithwaite suggest influences governance in a neo-feudal context?

John Braithwaite notes that business corporations have a specialized need for loss reduction, which influences their approach to governance in a neo-feudal system.

What is Yanis Varoufakis's theory regarding 'techno-feudalism'?

Yanis Varoufakis posits that traditional capitalism has evolved into a new feudal-like structure he calls 'techno-feudalism.' This is characterized by economies dominated by very small groups that predetermine market behavior, similar to how massive online enterprises like Facebook and Amazon are governed by small teams rather than operating as free markets.

How does Varoufakis differentiate techno-feudalism from capitalism?

Varoufakis differentiates techno-feudalism from capitalism by stating that feudal economies are dominated by very small groups who can predetermine market behavior as they see fit, unlike the theoretically free markets of capitalism.

What concern does Jeremy Pitt raise regarding techno-feudalism?

Jeremy Pitt expresses concern that techno-feudalism threatens freedom of information over the Internet.

When did Jorge Majfud begin discussing concepts similar to neo-feudalism?

Jorge Majfud had been using similar concepts since 2010.

What observation did Nick Hanauer make following the 2008 financial crisis?

Following the 2008 financial crisis, Nick Hanauer stated that the United States was rapidly transforming from a capitalist society into a more feudal one.

Whose views did Icelandic billionaire Björgólfur Thor Björgólfsson echo regarding societal structures?

Björgólfur Thor Björgólfsson echoed the views of Nick Hanauer, suggesting a shift towards feudal structures in society.

How did Icelandic novelists interpret the post-2008 financial crisis in their country?

A range of Icelandic novelists interpreted the economic boom and the 2008 Icelandic financial crisis as a period where the country was returning to feudal structures of power.

How is neo-feudalism depicted in Frank Herbert's *Dune* series?

In Frank Herbert's *Dune* series, the galactic empire known as the Imperium operates under a neo-feudalistic structure. This arose after humanity prohibited 'thinking machine technology,' leading to a balance of power dominated by numerous royal houses, each controlling planets, with social and political dynamics resembling medieval times.

What political scenario is depicted in David Brin's novel *Existence*?

In David Brin's novel *Existence*, American politicians are shown campaigning on the idea of legally transitioning the United States into a neo-feudalist society.

What concept did Klaus Schwab propose in his book *COVID-19: The Great Reset*?

In his book *COVID-19: The Great Reset*, Klaus Schwab argued that the pandemic presented an opportunity for governments to reshape global economies, societies, and governance structures by introducing a system of 'Stakeholder Capitalism' through a plan known as 'The Great Reset'.

How does Klaus Schwab connect 'The Great Reset' to another concept?

Klaus Schwab also refers to the goals of 'The Great Reset' as 'The Fourth Industrial Revolution'.

How has 'The Great Reset' initiative been characterized by some authors?

Some authors have criticized 'The Great Reset' initiative as being a form of Neo-Feudalism.

What is 'autarky' in the context of Immanuel Wallerstein's views on neo-feudalism?

In Immanuel Wallerstein's context, autarky refers to regions that are self-sufficient and independent, particularly in economic terms. He identified this as a characteristic of neo-feudalistic areas alongside localized hierarchies and elite access to high-tech goods.

What does 'class stratification' mean in relation to neo-feudalism?

Class stratification refers to the hierarchical division of society into distinct layers or classes based on factors like wealth, power, and status. In a neo-feudal context, this implies rigid social divisions with limited movement between them.

What is 'social mobility' and why is its lack a characteristic of neo-feudalism?

Social mobility refers to the ability of individuals or groups to move up or down the social ladder. A lack of social mobility, where one's social position is largely determined by birth or inherited status, is a key characteristic of neo-feudalism, mirroring historical feudal systems.

What was 'serfdom' in historical feudal societies?

Serfdom was a condition in historical feudal societies where peasants, known as serfs, were bound to the land and subject to the authority of a lord. While not slaves, they had limited freedom and owed labor or goods to the lord in exchange for protection and the right to cultivate land.

What does 'lordship' entail in a feudal context?

Lordship in a feudal context refers to the authority and control exercised by a feudal lord over his territory, vassals, and the people living there. It encompassed political, economic, and judicial power, forming the basis of the feudal hierarchy.

What are the general characteristics of 'neoconservative foreign policy'?

Neoconservative foreign policy is generally characterized by a belief in promoting democracy and national interests abroad through assertive and often interventionist means, frequently emphasizing the use of military power and alliances to shape international affairs.

What defines a 'multinational corporation'?

A multinational corporation (MNC) is a large company that operates and has business interests in multiple countries. These corporations can wield significant economic influence globally.

What is meant by 'governance' in the context of societal structures?

Governance refers to the processes of decision-making and the exercise of authority within organizations, states, or societies. It encompasses the systems, structures, and practices through which collective decisions are made and implemented.

What is 'The Fourth Industrial Revolution' as described by Klaus Schwab?

The Fourth Industrial Revolution, as described by Klaus Schwab, refers to the current era characterized by the fusion of technologies that blur the lines between the physical, digital, and biological spheres, such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and biotechnology, leading to profound societal and economic changes.

What is 'The Great Reset' initiative?

The Great Reset is an initiative proposed by the World Economic Forum, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. It suggests an opportunity to reshape global economies and societies towards a more sustainable and equitable future, often framed within the context of Stakeholder Capitalism and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

What is 'neo-corporatism' as mentioned in relation to neo-feudalism?

Neo-corporatism refers to a political system where organized interest groups, such as corporations and labor unions, play a significant role in policy-making, often in collaboration with the state. This can lead to concentrated power among specific organized groups.

What is the significance of 'private policing' in discussions of neo-feudalism?

The rise of private policing and its commodification are seen as significant aspects of neo-feudalism, as discussed by scholars like Ian Loader and Bruce Baker. It suggests a shift where security becomes a service purchased by those who can afford it, potentially diminishing the concept of shared citizenship and state responsibility.

What is the 'public sphere' as discussed by Jürgen Habermas?

The 'public sphere,' as discussed by Jürgen Habermas, refers to a social space where individuals can freely discuss and debate public affairs, form public opinion, and hold the state accountable. Habermas critiqued the privatization of communication for eroding this vital democratic space.

What does 'commodification of policing' mean in the context of neo-feudalism?

The 'commodification of policing' means that policing and security services are treated as goods or services that can be bought and sold in the market. In the context of neo-feudalism, this implies that access to security may depend on wealth rather than being a universal right provided by the state.

What is 'Stakeholder Capitalism' as proposed by Klaus Schwab?

Stakeholder Capitalism, as proposed by Klaus Schwab, is a model where companies aim to serve the interests of all their stakeholders—including employees, customers, suppliers, and the community—rather than solely focusing on maximizing shareholder profits. It is presented as a way to reshape economies and societies.

What is the 'Butlerian Jihad' in Frank Herbert's *Dune* series?

The Butlerian Jihad in Frank Herbert's *Dune* series was a historical conflict where humans fought against intelligent machines. Its outcome led to a fundamental prohibition against all forms of 'thinking machine technology,' profoundly shaping the future society depicted in the novels.

What is 'thinking machine technology' in the context of the *Dune* series?

'Thinking machine technology' in the *Dune* series refers to artificial intelligence and advanced computing systems capable of independent thought or complex decision-making. The prohibition of such technology after the Butlerian Jihad led to a society reliant on human intellect and specialized human abilities.

What does the term 'Refeudalisierung' mean, as used by Habermas?

Refeudalisierung, used by Habermas, translates to 'refeudalization' and describes the privatization of communication that he believed undermined the public sphere, leading to a society where public discourse is increasingly controlled by private interests, echoing some aspects of feudal control.

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What is Neo-feudalism?

A Theoretical Rebirth of Governance

Neo-feudalism, or new feudalism, posits a contemporary resurgence of governance, economic, and public life policies reminiscent of historical feudal societies. This theoretical framework suggests a return to societal models characterized by distinct tiers of rights and legal protections, where an elite class holds significant power and influence over the general populace.

Core Characteristics

Key aspects associated with neo-feudalism include:

Unequal Rights: Disparities in legal protections and rights between the nobility or elite and common citizens.
Elite Dominance: Societies governed by a small, powerful oligarchy.
Limited Social Mobility: A significant reduction in the ability for individuals to move between social strata.
Lordship and Serfdom: Relations characterized by a dependency of the poor populace on a wealthy elite, echoing historical lord-vassal or lord-serf dynamics.

Broader Societal Implications

The concept extends beyond mere political structure, encompassing economic and social dimensions. It is often discussed in relation to class stratification, the impacts of globalization, the influence of multinational corporations, and the rise of neo-corporatist structures, suggesting a complex interplay of modern forces that mirror historical hierarchies.

Theoretical Roots and Evolution

Early Critiques and Concepts

The term "neo-feudalism" has been employed as a critical lens for both left-wing and right-wing political ideologies. Early conceptualizations, such as Jürgen Habermas's notion of "refeudalisation" in his 1962 work, critiqued the privatization of the public sphere, a concept later seen as related to neo-feudalism.

Wallerstein's Global Perspective

Immanuel Wallerstein, in 1992, included neo-feudalism among his models of global development. He described it as referring to regions characterized by autarky (self-sufficiency), localized hierarchies, and the availability of high-tech goods exclusively for an elite segment of the population.

Economic Refeudalisation

Sighard Neckel has argued that the ascendancy of financial-market-based capitalism in the late 20th century represented an economic "refeudalisation." This perspective highlights how market dynamics can create structures that resemble historical feudal economic relationships, concentrating wealth and power.

Contemporary Manifestations

Gated Domains and Private Property

Clifford Shearing's theoretical approach, influential in discussions of neo-feudalism, draws attention to the emergence of "gated" domains of mass private property. This signifies areas or services that are increasingly exclusive, controlled by private entities, and accessible only to specific groups, mirroring historical feudal control over land and resources.

Commodification of Policing and Security

Scholars like Bruce Baker, Randy Lippert, and Daniel O'Connor have explored how the increasing power of corporations, akin to state governance powers, and the commodification of policing contribute to neo-feudal dynamics. Ian Loader notes this signifies an end to shared citizenship, as individuals' public lives become governed by business corporations, as Martha K. Huggins observes.

Wealth Gap and Security Provision

Marina Caparini points to the widening wealth gap and the exclusion of marginalized populations from state-provided security as factors enabling neo-feudalism, citing South Africa as an example. This creates a scenario where access to fundamental services, including security, becomes a privilege rather than a universal right.

Techno-Feudalism: A Digital Evolution?

Varoufakis's Theory

Yanis Varoufakis posits that traditional capitalism has evolved into "techno-feudalism." He argues that dominant online platforms like Facebook and Amazon function not as capitalist markets but as feudal markets, characterized by stringent control and predetermined behaviors, governed by the whims of single individuals or small teams rather than free trade.

Control Over Information

Jeremy Pitt echoes concerns about techno-feudalism, highlighting its potential threat to freedom of information across the internet. This perspective suggests that the concentration of power in digital platforms can lead to new forms of control and dependency, mirroring feudalistic power structures in the digital realm.

Precursors and Similar Concepts

Jorge Majfud has explored similar concepts since 2010. The idea that modern economic systems are shifting towards feudalistic structures has been a recurring theme in academic and public discourse, particularly following major economic events.

Cultural Resonance and Literary Echoes

American Discourse

Following the 2008 financial crisis, figures like Nick Hanauer suggested the United States was transitioning from a capitalist to a more feudal society. This sentiment has been echoed by various commentators, reflecting anxieties about growing inequality and concentrated wealth.

Icelandic Narratives

In Iceland, the economic boom and subsequent crisis led novelists such as Sigrún Davíðsdóttir, Bjarni Bjarnason, and others to explore themes of returning to feudal structures of power within their literary works, reflecting societal shifts through narrative.

Science Fiction and Future Visions

Neo-feudalism appears in speculative fiction. Frank Herbert's Dune series depicts a neo-feudalistic galactic empire where power is decentralized among noble houses. David Brin's novel Existence features political campaigns advocating for a transition to a neo-feudalist society.

The Great Reset Debate

Klaus Schwab's "The Great Reset" initiative, proposed in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, has been interpreted by some authors as a form of neo-feudalism. Critics argue that the proposed shift towards "Stakeholder Capitalism" and "The Fourth Industrial Revolution" could lead to increased centralized control and hierarchical structures reminiscent of feudalism.

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References

Thor Bjorgolfsson and Andrew Cave. Billions to Bustâand Back: How I Made, Lost, and Rebuilt a Fortune, and What I Learned on the Way. London: Profile, 2014. p. 194.

Cf. Boyes, Roger. Meltdown Iceland: Lessons on the World Financial Crisis from a Small Bankrupt Island. New York: Bloomsbury, 2009. p. 61.

Kaufman, Amy S., "Our Future is our Past: Corporate Medievalism in Dystopian Fiction", in Corporate Medievalism II, ed. by Karl Fugelso, Studies in Medievalism, 22 (Cambridge: Brewer, 2013), pp. 11â19.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Neo-feudalism Wikipedia page

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This is not economic or political advice. The information presented here is for theoretical understanding and should not be construed as actionable guidance for investment, policy-making, or personal decision-making. The complexities of socio-economic systems require nuanced analysis from qualified experts.

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The Shadow of Hierarchy

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What is Neo-feudalism? ⚖️

🏛️ A Theoretical Rebirth of Governance

⛓️ Core Characteristics

🌍 Broader Societal Implications

Theoretical Roots and Evolution 📜

🗣️ Early Critiques and Concepts

🌐 Wallerstein's Global Perspective

📈 Economic Refeudalisation

Contemporary Manifestations 🏢

🔒 Gated Domains and Private Property

👮 Commodification of Policing and Security

⚖️ Wealth Gap and Security Provision

Techno-Feudalism: A Digital Evolution? 💻

🤖 Varoufakis's Theory

🔒 Control Over Information

💡 Precursors and Similar Concepts

Cultural Resonance and Literary Echoes 📚

🇺🇸 American Discourse

🇮🇸 Icelandic Narratives

🌌 Science Fiction and Future Visions

🌍 The Great Reset Debate

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📜 Important Considerations

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is Neo-feudalism?

A Theoretical Rebirth of Governance

Core Characteristics

Broader Societal Implications

Theoretical Roots and Evolution

Early Critiques and Concepts

Wallerstein's Global Perspective

Economic Refeudalisation

Contemporary Manifestations

Gated Domains and Private Property

Commodification of Policing and Security

Wealth Gap and Security Provision

Techno-Feudalism: A Digital Evolution?

Varoufakis's Theory

Control Over Information

Precursors and Similar Concepts

Cultural Resonance and Literary Echoes

American Discourse

Icelandic Narratives

Science Fiction and Future Visions

The Great Reset Debate

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Considerations