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Byung‑Chul Han, at Asturias Prize, Says Capitalism Will Collapse Soon

He links his warning to eroding respect, digital addictions, a push for a regenerative economy.

Overview

  • Speaking in Oviedo at his first-ever press conference, the 2025 Princess of Asturias laureate for Communication and Humanities predicted the neoliberal system will collapse "soon."
  • Han argued capitalism is "productive but not reproductive," saying it fails to regenerate and is destroying its own foundations unless a self-renewing model is devised.
  • He warned that the loss of mutual respect and shared values leaves liberal democracy vulnerable and helps explain the ascent of autocrats and populists worldwide.
  • The philosopher criticized social media, information overload and consumer addictions for eroding rituals, role models and community, asserting that a democracy without community collapses.
  • Han said he has just submitted a new book titled "Sin respeto, una crisis social" and is preparing a concluding essay on contemporary addictions to consumption, information, gambling and social networks.