The horrors of civilisationism

TLDR

Civilisationism, often presented as a defense of "Western values," is fundamentally a collectivist and anti-liberal ideology. It idealizes a homogenous, exclusionary view of Western culture, fostering racism, bigotry, and hatred toward those seen as outsiders. True solidarity requires rejecting civilisationist rhetoric and embracing a pluralistic, inclusive understanding of community that values diversity and human dignity. Building local and global solidarity involves fostering shared values rooted in democracy, individual freedoms, and mutual respect. These principles, not the tribalism of civilizations, form the foundation for societies that can thrive in a diverse, interconnected world.

Civilisationism frames itself as a defense of "Western civilization" but its ideology is inherently anti-liberal. Emphasizing a collective identity rooted in homogeneity opposes the individual freedoms and pluralistic values central to liberal democracy. Civilizations often blame societal challenges on cultural or ethnic diversity, promoting exclusionary policies and fostering division. It reduces complex cultural and historical legacies to simplistic, static narratives, stoking fear of "the other" to consolidate power.
 
 
Those who vocally champion Western civilization in civilisationist terms frequently reveal underlying racism and bigotry. Their rhetoric often marginalizes minorities, demonizes immigrants, and promotes policies that erode human rights. These attitudes harm vulnerable populations and undermine the ideals—such as freedom of thought, equality, and human dignity—they claim to defend.
 
 
 
In contrast, human solidarity and community principles offer a path forward. Solidarity begins locally, fostering relationships of mutual respect and shared responsibility within neighborhoods and cities. From there, it extends globally, recognizing humanity's interconnectedness and the shared challenges we face, such as climate change, economic inequality, and migration. Communities built on mutual understanding and respect are more resilient and better equipped to navigate the complexities of modern life.
 
 
Rather than retreat into civilisationist tribalism, societies must invest in strengthening the values of democracy, individual liberty, and inclusivity. Building solidarity does not mean erasing differences but embracing them as part of a shared human experience. True strength lies in working together across cultural, identity, and geographical lines to create a more just and sustainable world.
 

Concluding Reflections

Civilisationism is a divisive and regressive ideology that opposes the values of liberal democracy. Its proponents, often driven by racism and bigotry, exploit fears of diversity to promote exclusion and hostility. To counter this, societies must reject the tribalism of civilizations and focus on fostering human solidarity at all levels, from local communities to the global stage. Solidarity built on mutual respect, inclusivity, and shared responsibility strengthens societies and aligns with the principles of freedom and democracy. By embracing pluralism and cooperation, humanity can address shared challenges and build a future of dignity and unity for all.
 
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