Phenomenology of the revolutionary mass in K. Papaioannou and the Byzantine revolutions
Abstract
This article examines the role of masses during revolutionary periods through the philosophical, historical, and political lens of Kostas Papaioannou, specifically focusing on the third part of his work Mass and History titled "Phenomenology of the Revolutionary Mass". The author explores how Papaioannou categorizes the "mass" as a qualitative rather than quantitative concept, which can evolve from an unorganized "lumpen" group into a conscious historical force. The study applies Papaioannou’s interpretive tools to significant Byzantine uprisings, such as the Nika riots (532 AD) and the Zealot revolution in Thessaloniki (14th century). By analyzing primary sources from Byzantine chroniclers alongside Papaioannou’s theory, the paper investigates the economic motives and lack of class consciousness in the Nika riots while contrasting them with the radical, anti-aristocratic rhetoric of the Zealots. Ultimately, the research highlights Papaioannou’s contribution to understanding how the existence and will of the mass influence historical progress.
Article Details
- How to Cite
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Melidis, T. (2023). Phenomenology of the revolutionary mass in K. Papaioannou and the Byzantine revolutions. Ηθική. Περιοδικό φιλοσοφίας, (16-17), 211–218. https://doi.org/10.12681/ethiki.33688
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- No. 16-17 (2023)
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- Articles
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