Abstract

In this review, I outline the significant contributions James Martel's book The Misinterpellated Subject (2017) makes: First, it shows us that processes of liberal interpellation are linked to the violence inherent in the project of (neo)liberal capitalism. Second, it theorizes an alternative subject that emerges out of subjects' own particular communities and struggles. Third, it draws on historical examples and a variety of literature. Fourth, it shows us how non-elites often spark revolutions. Finally, it shows that everyday failures and refusals of interpellative authority can lead to radical change in the long run. I also raise a few concerns: First, his idea that the rebellious subjects emerge when they subject themselves to power makes it difficult to envision when transformative agency. Second, his "anarchist subject" is depicted as "constantly shifting" and is as such implicated in the spirit of neoliberal capitalism. Third, almost all of Martel's examples of refusal refer to black men, which leaves out the voices of (black) women. Fourth, fear of ridicule and the actual feelings of failure might not lead to radical changes (as he suggests). On the contrary, ridicule can be successfully exploited by the far right.