Critique of: “Constructing the Situationist” by Raunig.

I for the most part had trouble identifying with the original International Situationist (S.I) group and their actions and reactionary endeavours. I can empathise with the progression of their art and political ideologies. However, S.I appear to be hypocrites who’s radical and disruptive gestures appose what appears to be a reclusive and isolationist ideologies, I think this is best summed up by Rauning:

“ The paradoxically double sided face of S.I- their practice of exclusion on the other hand the Situationist process of opening up toward the movement”

On the simplest level I have trouble understanding how a group who actively rejects established institutions such as unions, political regimes, universities, art movements (/institutions), industry can interact with them in such a way that promotes and continues exposure to elements of organisation that they are opposed. For example why would affiliates of S.I go to University of Strasbourg attend a lecture and throw a tomato? If you are opposed to the ‘oppressive’ nature of the buildings, the environment, and the institution why continue the exposure? I have made a reasonable leap in logic and assumed the S.I members protesting at Uni where former or currently enrolled in the institution (if this assumption is correct this in its self presents a degree of hypocrisy as at one stage /or at the present the individuals affiliation with the university is promoting it’s purpose, methods, finances and prominence as an educational institution). I assume this because surely such a staunch dislike is harboured by intimated, continuous and/or prolonged exposure to multiple aspects of the institution. I fail to understand why you be revolutionary within the system if you where anti-system. The logical step would be to remove yourself from the un-pleasurable situation, in this case university/ union and create your alternate ‘anti uni and student union’.

I know they had an impact on the interaction between art and space and had a profound impact on the interaction between art, politics, society and revolution. But at the end the day they are French- the French love a good revolution.