Michael Hardt

Michael Hardt on Subversive Festival

Michael Hardt is an American literary theorist and political philosopher known for his writings on globalization, political economy, and democracy. Hardt is best known for his collaboration with Antonio Negri in co-authoring the trilogy of books: Empire (2000), Multitude: War and Democracy in the Age of Empire (2004), and Commonwealth (2009). These works have been influential in the fields of political science, sociology, and cultural studies, offering a reevaluation of imperialism and capitalism in the context of a globalizing world.

Biography

Michael Hardt was born in the United States. He pursued his undergraduate studies at Swarthmore College, where he majored in engineering before shifting his focus to comparative literature. Hardt completed his Ph.D. in comparative literature at the University of Washington, where he was influenced by the works of Antonio Negri, a prominent Marxist theorist. Hardt's academic career has included teaching positions at several universities, including the European Graduate School where he serves as a professor of literature and Italian.

Work

Hardt's work is characterized by its interdisciplinary approach, drawing on philosophy, literature, and political theory. His collaboration with Antonio Negri has produced a significant body of literature that critiques contemporary forms of power and governance. Their trilogy begins with Empire, which argues that the globalization of the late 20th and early 21st centuries has created a new form of global governance, or "Empire," that is fundamentally different from the imperialisms of the past. Multitude expands on this by discussing the potential of the diverse social classes, or the "multitude," to resist and create democratic alternatives to the empire. Commonwealth further explores the concept of the commonwealth, or the common goods that society produces, and how they can be the basis for creating a more equitable and democratic society.

Themes and Contributions

Hardt's contributions to political philosophy and critical theory revolve around several key themes:

• The analysis of sovereignty and the structures of power in the context of globalization.
• The concept of the multitude as a potential force for democracy and change against the backdrop of global capitalism.
• The exploration of the commons and commonwealth as alternatives to the neoliberal model of privatization and individualism.

Hardt's work, particularly his collaboration with Negri, has sparked debate and discussion within academic and activist circles. Critics have engaged with their optimistic view of globalization's potential for creating spaces of resistance and their conceptualization of the multitude. Despite criticisms, their work remains influential in understanding the complexities of global power dynamics and the possibilities for collective action.

Legacy

Michael Hardt's influence extends beyond academia into political activism and movements advocating for global justice and democracy. His ideas have been cited by participants in various global protests and movements, including the anti-globalization movement and Occupy Wall Street. Hardt continues to write and speak on issues related to democracy, social movements, and the potential for transformative change in the global political landscape.