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Political discourse faces a paradox of rising noise and diminishing power
Discussions regarding the current state of political discourse highlight a growing disconnect between intense political noise and actual political power. Analysis centers on the phenomenon where politics permeates every aspect of private life—from language and food to art and parenting—yet fails to produce substantive institutional or policy changes.
This paradox is explored through the lens of Anton Jäger's book, "Hyperpolitics: Extreme Politicization Without Political Consequences." Jäger, a Belgian historian and professor at the University of Oxford, suggests that the 21st century may be defined by an excess of politics that results in a deficiency of political action. While scandals and protests occur frequently, institutional orders often remain unchanged, leading to a state where constant public debate fails to address fundamental societal questions.