Solidarity Having Quote by Timothy Morton
““Solidarity requires having something in common. But having something in common is exactly what culturalism sees as essentialism, and thus as reactionary primitivism. How do you get there—solidarity—from here—the strong correlationism that lords over Marxist, anti-imperialist and imperialist thought domains? Perhaps having something in common is a spurious, dangerous concept? Perhaps we could reimagine solidarity without having anything in common? This is the popular approach from within strong correlationism. Or perhaps—and this is Humankind’s approach—we could reimagine what “to have in common” means. I chose the title Humankind as a deliberate provocation to those scholars who think that “having in common” is based on ideas that are less acceptable than farting in church.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “Humankind” (2020) by Timothy Morton
Solidarity is challenged by the idea that shared identity is essentialist and reactionary, prompting a rethinking of commonality beyond rigid categories.
In simple terms: Solidarity may need new ways to connect without assuming sameness.
Key Takeaway
Rethink shared identity beyond essentialism.
Themes
philosophy
politics
identity
solidarity
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- activist organizing
- community building
- cross‑cultural collaboration
Key Concepts
essentialism
correlationism
reactionary primitivism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we foster solidarity without imposing a shared identity?
- What alternatives exist to “having in common”?
A Different Perspective
Assuming any common ground can be exclusionary and overlook differences.
