DETERRITORIALIZED POLITICS: A CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF DELEUZE AND GUATTARI’S POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY

Authors : Can Büyükbay

Pages : 84-94

Doi:10.33817/muhakeme.1788045

View : 44 | Download : 102

Publication Date : 2025-12-28

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This article critically examines the political philosophy of Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari and focuses on the tensions between their concepts of deterritorialization, assemblages, affect, and the War Machine. Their framework challenges hierarchical power and state control. However, scholars have raised concerns about its lack of organizational structure, its susceptibility to capitalist co-optation, and its applicability in contemporary struggles. A key critique explored is the paradox of deterritorialization: Though Deleuze and Guattari present it as a force of resistance, capitalism itself thrives on deterritorializing markets and social relations. This makes it difficult to distinguish between liberation and neoliberal adaptability. Similarly, while assemblages offer a fluid model of political formation, critics argue they lack a sustainable framework for long-term resistance. Additionally, scholars highlight the limits of affect-driven politics, which often dissolves under capitalist reterritorialization. This article also examines whether Deleuze and Guattari’s opposition between the State and the War Machine remains viable in the digital age. Scholars argue that algorithmic governance and networked capitalism blur the distinction between control and resistance. In response, this article explores ways to rethink deterritorialization and integrate assemblage theory with hegemonic struggle. Ultimately, it argues that Deleuze and Guattari’s concepts remain valuable but require strategic adaptation to address contemporary power structures effectively.
Keywords : Deleuze, savaş makinesi, algoritmik yönetişim, şizoanaliz, kapitalizm sonrası siyaset

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