Common, almost reflexive reactions from observers and scholars to phenomena of political regression (such as the continued dominance of the toxic doctrine of TINA, the failure of empowerment projects for the subjugated, or the rise of obscurantist far-right movements) imply that the problem lies with "society," either because people "do not understand" or because the "post-industrial" conditions are not favorable, they are not – as is commonly said – "mature." Viewed from a historical perspective, these assessments have extremely doubtful accuracy; however, their main problem is that they underestimate – if not entirely bypass – the role that politics plays: public discourse and actions that not only reflect but also shape consciousness.

The book at hand aims to highlight this specific – relational – dimension of politics that shapes. Covering a broad range of themes over a long historical timeframe, that pertain both to institutional-state and confrontational-claiming politics (with particular focus on the actions of the labor movement), the volume records specific political discourses and attempts to illuminate the ways in which they have influenced developments.

Through this prism, a neglected conclusion emerges: that for the many state failures (e.g., the persistently unattainable "modernization" or the failure to address unemployment) as well as for a series of ineffective advocacy efforts (from the Interwar period to the present day), it was not – and is not – "society" that is to blame, but the political policies being followed.

Read here the contents & an indicative chapter.