Theory of General Economy
Georges Bataille’s “Theory of General Economy” is a philosophical concept that challenges traditional economic models by focusing on the idea of "excess" and "expenditure" rather than scarcity and production, suggesting that societies must actively consume and waste a portion of their resources ("the accursed share") to maintain a healthy social order, often through practices like ritualistic sacrifice, luxury, or even war; this concept is radically different from conventional economic thinking which prioritizes accumulation and utility.
Key Points about Bataille’s General Economy:
- Excess energy: Unlike standard economics which assumes scarcity, Bataille posits that all living organisms naturally receive more energy than needed for basic survival, creating a surplus that must be “wasted” or “expended” in some way.
- The “Accursed Share”: This term refers to the portion of excess energy that must be spent lavishly, consumed without purpose, or even destroyed to avoid societal disruption.
- Consumption over production: Bataille prioritizes the act of spending and consuming over the act of producing goods, viewing consumption as a necessary mechanism to deal with the excess.
- Potlatch as a model: Bataille draws inspiration from the indigenous potlatch practice, where individuals or groups would give away large quantities of wealth in a display of social status, demonstrating the concept of wasteful expenditure.
- Transgression and sovereignty: Bataille connects the “accursed share” to concepts of transgression and sovereignty, suggesting that the act of expending excess can be a powerful and liberating experience that challenges societal norms.
Criticisms of Bataille’s Theory:
- Vagueness and lack of practical application: Some argue that Bataille’s ideas are too abstract and lack concrete mechanisms for implementing a “general economy” in real-world situations.
- Potential for justifying destructive behavior: Critics worry that emphasizing the “accursed share” could be interpreted as condoning wasteful or harmful practices.