In this episode I explore how sense of place fits in within wider existential concerns around meaning, sense of self, and identity. I will be discussing sense of place in relation to Heidegger's notion of Dasein and Camus' consideration of the Absurd, as well as the exacerbation of alienation that is felt from a shift in sense of place.
Understanding the psychological and emotional attachment to place, and the positive and negative consequences of that attachment, are crucial, I believe, in understanding the current political climate of the Western world. The UK, in particular, is undergoing an identity crisis, one that is, to my mind, contributing to the rise of Reform UK and the resurgence of right-wing populism.
This work on sense of place and attachment to place forces us to confront some uncomfortable truths. But that is not a concession of defeat in the fight against Reform UK, and against racism in general. My motto for this fight? You need to understand the disease in order to find a cure!
I welcome any pushbacks or questions. I'm not presenting this as an absolute truth or as a statement of fact. It is an exploration of a few different trains of thought around existentialism and sense of place, with the aim of opening up a platform for wider discourse on this issue.
Thanks for listening.
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