ABSTRACT
The interlocking of human freedom with "inevitable pro cesses" of deterioration must be comprehended with reference to the idea of the practico-inert, and to our radical submission to its modern forms. Arising out of a material foundation, interest improves the material quality of life. It promotes inventions, varies production and populates the world with "interesting" things. But it is obvious that this aspect of modernity services an individual who is merely obeying the "inert expectation" of things. The individual becomes a pattern of behavior shaped by the social system of the practico-inert. The interchangeability of humanity and materiality darkens the prospect of free and genuine human relations. It introduces the ethics of seriousness which increase human submission to the world even while increasing resentment in the process of making the world. For Jean-Paul Sartre, the historical moment of interest developed with property. Sartre applies this method to investigate the phenomenon of colonialism.
