The Unclear Accusation as Political Device
Stage 4: Self- criticism. In order to defend himself in a trial that refuses to declare the charge, K ends up looking for the crime itself. Where is it concealed? Certainly somewhere in his curriculum vitae. "He would have to recall his entire life, including the most minute acts and events, and then to explain and examine it in every regard."
The situation is not at all unreal: This is actually the way some simple woman hounded by misfortune will wonder: What have I done wrong? and begin to comb her past, examining not only her actions but her words and her secret thoughts in an effort to comprehend God's anger.
To describe this state of mind Communist political practice coined the term self-criticism (used in this political sense since the 1930s; Kafka never used it).
This usage of the term does not correspond exactly to its etymology. It is not a matter of criticism (distinguishing good features from bad with the aim of correcting faults). It is a matter of finding your offense to let you help your accuser, let you accept and ratify the accusation.
From Testaments Betrayed: An Essay in Nine Parts by Milan Kundera
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Comments (1)
Attack!
Insinuate that your oppressor has collaborated in your offense without actually admitting to an offense. Make clear that any "confession" or "self-criticism" will be sure to include details of the culpability of all present. The only way to defeat a psychopath is to employ his tactics against him. The only thing a psychopath fears is a higher psychopath. Attempting to "take the high road" merely plays into his hands. There is no moral high ground in a conflict with a psychopath, there is only survival or death. Choose life.
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June 15, 2009
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