The Experience Society: Life Beyond Subjectivity

Svend Brinkmann
Paperback, 96 pages
9781836390954

An enlightening look at how our elevation of the sensorial and the subjective has impaired our ability to connect—and how we might build that connection back.

 
In today’s so-called experience society, everything is judged by personal experience, from online shopping to funerals. Value is measured by how satisfying an individual finds their experience, and the experience economy thrives on this desire for entertainment and fulfilment. Yet debates often reach an impasse when reduced to subjective feelings—whether offence is taken or criticisms are dismissed. Svend Brinkmann explores this cultural shift, examining how our reliance on subjective experience limits meaningful discussions and social cohesion. He argues that reclaiming a shared, objective reality is essential for tackling the major issues of our time and for fostering genuine understanding beyond personal perceptions.

Contents
Introduction
1 Welcome to the Experience Society
2 But That’s Just How You See It
3 Farewell to the Experience Society