About Book

Max Stirner and the Political Theology of Fanaticism by Jorn Janssen offers a profound philosophical investigation into political fanaticism through the lens of Max Stirner’s radical thought. Stirner, a 19th-century German philosopher often overshadowed by contemporaries like Marx or Nietzsche, is re-examined here as a central figure for understanding how political ideologies can take on quasi-religious forms. Janssen's thesis is that political fanaticism—defined as irrational and emotionally intense devotion to political causes—parallels religious zealotry in both structure and fervor. By situating fanaticism within the framework of political theology, the book reveals how modern secular ideologies frequently adopt religious qualities (sacred values, absolute truth claims, martyrdom). The book provides a critical yet non-partisan analysis, focusing not on specific ideologies but on the fanatic dynamic itself, as it manifests across political spectrums. In the age of populism, online radicalization, ideological polarization, and identity-driven politics, Janssen’s analysis is highly pertinent. The book draws attention to the emotive and irrational foundations of contemporary political allegiance, warning how secular societies can still fall prey to doctrinaire thinking that mimics religious fundamentalism. From a community engagement standpoint, this work provides a philosophical and analytical framework useful for designing dialogue-based interventions, civic education programs, and critical media literacy tools. It empowers stakeholders to recognize and deconstruct fanatic impulses in modern sociopolitical movements without demonizing dissent itself. This is a rigorous and timely philosophical exploration that positions Max Stirner as a key voice in decoding modern fanaticism. It will appeal to scholars and advanced students interested in the intersection of politics, theology, and emotion. Its utility lies in helping researchers and educators understand how secular ideologies can radicalize belief systems in the absence of traditional religion. The work's non-ideological tone, sharp conceptual clarity, and relevance to modern political behavior make it a strong candidate for academic and policy-focused repositories alike.