16/02/2026
The Istanbul Policy Center hosted Renata Salecl, a leading figure in contemporary critical theory, for a talk on her book, "Running on the Spot – The Subject as a Hostage of Neoliberalism." The event explored how neoliberal systems shape individual and societal experiences through the concepts of freedom, choice, and responsibility.
The Istanbul Policy Center (IPC) organized a book talk to mark the Turkish edition of Renata Salecl's book, "Running on the Spot – The Subject as a Hostage of Neoliberalism." Held at the IPC's headquarters in Karaköy, the event featured Salecl highlighting the impact of neoliberalism on individuals through the concepts of freedom, choice, and responsibility. Focusing on how neoliberal systems shape individuals' daily life experiences, Salecl talked about the reflections of these processes on personal decision-making mechanisms, social relations, and subjective experiences.
The event also discussed the intellectual and political roots of the growing sense of insecurity in today's world. Salecl addressed the widespread sense of "stagnation" that characterizes the current global climate. The talk offered a critical perspective on the psychological, political, and cultural consequences of neoliberal systems, offering participants an opportunity to engage with one of the most influential voices in contemporary critical thought. The event was a fruitful exchange of ideas enriched by the active contributions of the participants.
A philosopher, social scientist, and archaeologist of everyday life
The renowned Slovenian thinker Renata Salecl takes the seemingly simplest aspects of everyday life and generates ideas that astound her readers. In her book, "Running on the Spot – The Subject as a Hostage of Neoliberalism," Salecl, described as a philosopher, social scientist, and archaeologist of everyday life, brings together disciplines such as philosophy, politics, psychoanalysis, forensic science, genetics, and sociology in a fascinating synthesis. The book, which accounts of the last forty years, describes how ordinary people, despite their hard work and efforts, remain stagnant, lose their life security, and face the risk of leaving nothing for their children.
About IPC:
Istanbul Policy Center (IPC) is a global policy research institution that specializes in key social and political issues ranging from democratization to climate change, transatlantic relations to conflict resolution and mediation. IPC organizes and conducts its research under six main clusters:
- The Istanbul Policy Center-Sabancı University-Stiftung Mercator Initiative
- Climate Change
- Democratization, Conflict Resolution, and Global Politics
- SHURA Energy Transition Center
- Sustainability
- Digital Society
Since 2001, IPC has provided decision makers, opinion leaders, and other major stakeholders with objective analyses and innovative policy recommendations.
