Political messianism in Walter Benjamin: victims and armed conflict in Colombia

Abstract

The study focuses on the political messianism of Walter Benjamin and its relevance to violence in Colombia. Benjamin criticizes historical narration from the perspective of the victors, proposing a new way of telling history from the perspective of the defeated. This perspective includes a political and messianic approach, which seeks to redeem the oppressed and discarded of history. The first part of the analysis of Walter Benjamin's political messianism is based on the theses of Reyes Mate. Benjamin criticizes historicism and defends memory as a tool to rescue the experience of the defeated, giving them voice and redemption. Memory, according to Benjamin, is crucial to keeping past injustice alive and fighting against oblivion, thus offering hope for redemption. The second part directs attention to the armed conflict as a place where political redemption can be applied according to Benjamin. The armed conflict in Colombia is examined through its history and graphic testimonies, highlighting the daily struggle of the people. The paradox of a country with economic growth and democratic tradition, but with high poverty and a fragile State, incapable of guaranteeing security and justice is addressed.