DefinePK

Research Objective

To explore the process of identity formation in Don DeLillo's Underworld by analyzing ecocritical thematics and the psychological phenomenon of abjection, arguing that modern identity is formed on the exploitation of nature, leading to psychological jeopardy.

Methodology

The study applies an alloy of theories from Ecocriticism (Greg Garrard) and psychoanalytic theory, specifically Julia Kristeva's concept of Abjection from Powers of Horror: An Essay on Abjection. The novel Underworld by Don DeLillo is analyzed through this theoretical framework.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A["Identify Theoretical Frameworks: Ecocriticism Garrard, Abjection Kristeva"] --> B["Select Literary Text: Don DeLillo's Underworld"]
    B --> C["Analyze Novel for Ecocritical Thematics"]
    C --> D["Analyze Novel for Psychological Abjection"]
    D --> E["Explore Relationship between Nature Exploitation and Identity Formation"]
    E --> F["Synthesize Findings on Abjection and Ecological Degradation"]
    F --> G["Formulate Conclusions on Human-Nature Relationship and Identity"]                    

Discussion

The paper argues that ecological degradation is a consequence of the parasitic relationship between humans and nature, stemming from human abjection. The exploitation of nature is linked to the formation of human agency and psychological degradation, where self-gratification is achieved at the cost of ecological damage. The concept of the Anthropocene is invoked, highlighting human domination of the planet and the resulting environmental changes. The study posits that the "space" is a register of the self, and the novel presents waste dumps as the new form of nature, leading to the decentering of humanity.

Key Findings

Modern man forms his identity on the ruthless exploitation of nature, which acts as the "primal other." This subjugation of nature leads to a "rotten core" upon which selfhood is developed. The malfunctioned relationship with nature jeopardizes the psyche of modern man, resulting in psychological abjection. The novel calls for a symbiotic rather than a parasitic relationship between humans and nature.

Conclusion

The exploitation of nature is intrinsically linked to the formation of human agency and identity, achieved through psychological degradation. Characters in the novel assert their supremacy by destroying nature, leading to ecological degradation and a tendency towards posthumanism. The environment has been significantly altered by human intervention, and a symbiotic relationship with nature is presented as the solution.

Fact Check

1. Author of Underworld: Don DeLillo (Confirmed by text).
2. Theoretical Framework: The study explicitly mentions applying theories from Greg Garrard (Ecocriticism) and Julia Kristeva (Abjection) (Confirmed by text).
3. Novel's Theme: The study analyzes the novel Underworld for themes of identity formation and ecological abjection (Confirmed by text).

Mind Map