Harmut Rosa states that Resonance is not just a metaphor but a mode of relation. He defines it by using four exemplary characteristics:
- Being affected
- Self-efficacy
- Adaptive transformation
- Uncontrollability
Rosa starts by recognizing the influence of science and technology in the modern world. “This cultural achievement… has nearly perfected human beings’ ability to establish a certain distance from the world. While at the same time bringing it within our manipulative reach.” (30) I think Rosa doesn’t favor the relation or connection we have with society, due to us distancing from it. It could mean from nature or the bad and the good events happening around us that we are unaware of. At the same time, we can manipulate it to benefit us or use it with a bad intent towards others.
In Rosa’s conclusion states, “In doing so, I hope to shine a light on the difficulties in which modernity finds itself, not just in its relation to nature but also in a political and subjective relationship to the world and with itself.” (39) This is very important because today’s society has been influenced politically and materialistically. For instance, American politics is mainly based on two influential political parties. Its followers’ beliefs, primarily those with heavy political beliefs, have demonstrated that it can carry such hostility towards others’ political beliefs that can affect our relationship with society. Society is not perfect, and it will never be. But I think Rosa is hoping to make the world see our relationship with each other and how it can impact us.
My favorite quote is, “Resonance is inherently uncontrollable. Just as with falling asleep, the harder we try to make it happen, the less we succeed.” (Rosa 37) Not only do I think it is true, but Rosa’s way of using a metaphor so real and relatable (at least for me) can lead to a better understanding that Resonance, by nature, cannot be controlled.
