Economie des Affects : A propos du Précariat, de la Flexicurité et du Conatus

Abstract

This dissertation addresses the question of the emergence of the new class structure with regard to the enrolment of affects by capitalism. It stems from Frédéric Lordon's theoretical proposal to bring post-structuralism and Spinozism into dialogue. Firstly, it resituates the interest of such a proposal in the more general field of anthropology. Secondly, class structure is analysed in terms of income and the fragmentation of affective complexions. Thirdly, the concept of flexicurity is contextualised and discussed in relation to affect theory. Finally, the more historical aspects of the emergence of public relations, the culture industry and the historical regimes of desire will be addressed to qualify the new affective regime of contemporary capitalism and the specificity of the precariat within it.