The Unconscious Civilization: Corporatism, Ideology, and the Citizen [John Ralston Saul]

Read the Full ArticleThe provided text comprises excerpts from John Ralston Saul’s 1995 Massey Lectures, “The Unconscious Civilization,” which critically analyzes contemporary Western society. Saul argues that modern civilization is increasingly dominated by “corporatism”—an ideology focused on group legitimacy, self-interest, and managerial control—at the expense of individual citizenship and democracy. He contrasts this corporatist structure, which relies on propaganda and specialized language, with the historical tradition of humanism and the examined life, advocating for a renewed commitment to consciousness, criticism, and the public good to achieve societal equilibrium. The author frequently draws on philosophical and historical figures like Socrates, Adam Smith, and John of Salisbury to support his contention that the current reliance on market forces, technology, and technocratic elites represents a dangerous “great leap backwards” from democratic ideals. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theofficialurban.substack.com/subscribe