accelerationist

Accelerationism is a broad and often contentious term encompassing a range of political and social theories that argue for the intensification of capitalism and technological development to bring about fundamental societal change. At its core, accelerationism posits that the existing system, often identified as late capitalism or neoliberalism, contains the seeds of its own destruction or transformation. Proponents believe that by pushing these inherent contradictions and tendencies to their extreme, a new social or political order will emerge.

There are distinct strands within accelerationist thought. Left-accelerationism, for instance, tends to focus on harnessing technological advancements and automation to liberate humanity from alienated labor and create a post-capitalist society, often through a radical reimagining of social organization and distribution. Right-accelerationism, on the other hand, often views the current system as decadent and seeks to hasten its collapse through various means, including social disintegration or even violence, with the aim of establishing a radically different, often ethno-nationalist or authoritarian, future.

Due to its diverse interpretations and association with fringe political movements, the term "accelerationism" can carry negative connotations. Critics often point to the potential for such theories to justify destructive actions or provide a theoretical basis for radical political instability. The concept remains a subject of ongoing debate and interpretation within academic and political circles.