How Change Can Deceive Us While Maintaining the Status Quo
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Understanding Change
The notion that "everything must change so that everything can remain the same" was often echoed by one of my history instructors, referencing the words of Lampedusa to illustrate the emergence of fascism in early 20th-century Europe.
Image by Septimiu Balica
Initially, it may be challenging to view fascism as a contemporary and groundbreaking ideology, but it was perceived that way at its inception—something fresh and enticing that claimed to eliminate outdated political practices. Today, we can observe how some current political movements and figures draw striking similarities to this past. Populism, regardless of its form, often relies on the illusion of novelty. As long as a leader or movement is perceived as new, it garners excitement and is seen as a challenge to systemic injustices.
In our Information Age, it takes little effort to uncover the true origins and backers of these movements. A few online searches often reveal that the individuals behind them are not new at all. For instance, in Spain, fascism drastically altered a fractured nation merely to ensure that the same families retained control. Years later, when a bloodthirsty dictator passed away, a so-called transition to democracy occurred, yet the same families continued to wield power. There were no accountability measures, no repercussions for the terror inflicted on the populace—all justified in the name of peace, stability, and rebuilding. Changes occurred so that the status quo remained intact.
Personal Transformations
Surprisingly, this phenomenon isn't limited to politics alone. Many individuals make significant changes in their lives, such as relocating, getting engaged, divorcing, or starting a family, often driven by a sense of stagnation. However, these changes shouldn't merely arise from discomfort with our current selves. It’s easy to alter our surroundings to create the illusion of personal change.
I believe these pivotal life events should stem from a place of confidence and clarity about who we are and who we aspire to become. They should not serve as excuses to avoid the most critical transformation—changing ourselves. Genuine change within ourselves must precede any authentic shifts in our external circumstances.
If our changes lack meaningful consequences, they are likely superficial. A wise friend once remarked that true self-discovery occurs when one learns to be alone. Recognizing that we are the only elements we can control allows us to appreciate the significance of real change.
Both in political contexts and our personal journeys, it's crucial to assess whether those heralding change are willing to sacrifice anything for true transformation. If not, it’s likely just a performance.
Exploring the Current Landscape
As I reflect on today's landscape, my level of pessimistic optimism rests at 60%. This piece has been composed while listening to “Domicile” by Helios.
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Who am I, you may wonder? I’m a musician with a passion for writing and a writer who creates music. Feel free to explore my world here.