Accelerationism is a term used to describe the idea that speeding up the collapse of the existing political and economic systems is necessary in order to bring about a more just and equitable society. This philosophy has gained traction in recent years, particularly among the political left. However, some have argued that accelerationists owe a debt of gratitude not to figures like Peter Thiel or the alt-right, but to Rupert Murdoch.
Rupert Murdoch is a media mogul who has had a profound impact on global media and politics. His media empire, which includes outlets like Fox News and The Sun, has been accused of promoting right-wing and conservative views while attacking more liberal and progressive values. Murdoch has also been a staunch critic of multiculturalism, which he sees as a threat to traditional values and national identity.
While Murdoch’s views may seem antithetical to accelerationism, some argue that he has unwittingly helped to advance the accelerationist cause. By promoting right-wing and conservative views, Murdoch has helped to create a polarized political climate in which radical change becomes more likely. By attacking multiculturalism and progressive values, Murdoch has contributed to a sense of disillusionment and frustration among marginalized groups, which can fuel radical movements.
In addition, Murdoch’s media empire has helped to create a culture of hyper-consumerism and instant gratification, which are key ingredients of the accelerationist worldview. The accelerationist philosophy holds that the existing political and economic systems are fundamentally broken and cannot be reformed from within. Instead, radical change is necessary, and this change can only come about through the complete collapse of the existing system.
Murdoch’s media empire has helped to create a culture of instant gratification by promoting consumerism and materialism, which have led to a sense of alienation and disconnection among many people. This sense of alienation and disconnection can fuel a desire for radical change, and it is this desire that underlies the accelerationist philosophy.
Of course, it is important to note that Murdoch’s influence on the accelerationist movement is indirect and unintentional. Murdoch himself is a staunch opponent of the radical left and progressive values, and his media empire has been accused of promoting racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination. However, it is possible to argue that Murdoch’s actions have inadvertently contributed to the accelerationist cause by creating a culture of hyper-polarization and alienation.
In conclusion, while the accelerationist movement has been associated with figures like Peter Thiel and the alt-right, it is possible to argue that the movement owes a debt of gratitude to Rupert Murdoch as well. Murdoch’s media empire has helped to create a culture of hyper-polarization, alienation, and instant gratification, all of which are key ingredients of the accelerationist worldview. While Murdoch’s influence on the accelerationist movement may be indirect and unintentional, it is nonetheless significant.