The concepts · Entry

Dileviathann.

A concept developed by Asma Mhalla to name the two-headed structure of contemporary power: the state and the great private powers, at once partners, rivals and interdependent. The Dileviathan describes the internal tension of the BigState: two centres of power cooperate because they need one another, while continually seeking to preserve or extend their own sovereignty. Their relationship is therefore unstable, made of alliances, reciprocal dependencies, negotiations and balances of force. A political figure of the Leviathan split in two, the Dileviathan makes it possible to think a power whose apparent unity now conceals a sovereignty that is shared, competitive and conflictual.

First public appearance — 17 January 2021, Signes des temps — France Culture · Trump et les réseaux sociaux, pouvoir et technologie au XXIᵉ siècle ↗