Neoliberalism, autoimmunity, and social networks

Abstract

Esposito shows that the immunitary paradigm, by exempting individuals from
obligations with the common, functions as necessary counterpart of the
community. This paradigm is based, in modern times, on principles dear to
liberalism, such as property and freedom. In our epoch, however, neoliberalism, the way it is characterized by Foucault, brings with it a series of changes in terms of subjectivity and sociability which, by radicalizing liberal principles, have an autoimmune effect, amounting to an undermining of the community. These changes, of a biopolitical nature, are illustrated by an analysis of Internet social networks, which highlights in this communicational phenomenon the valorization of individualism and the fluid patterns of sociability.