Watch The Shock Doctrine

The Shock Doctrine is a documentary film that was originally broadcast on Channel 4. It is based on the book of the same name by Naomi Klein and co-directed by Michael Winterbottom and Mat Whitecross. The show is a gripping exploration of the ways in which disaster capitalism has been used to exploit vulnerable populations all over the world. The film takes its name from the theory that after a major crisis, whether it be a natural disaster, a war or an economic collapse, there is a small window of opportunity for those in power to carry out extreme, often controversial, policies. This is known as "the shock doctrine". According to the theory, people are too disorientated and traumatised by the crisis to protest or resist such policies, allowing those in power to push through unpopular measures without too much opposition.

The film explores the history of the shock doctrine and how it has been used in various countries throughout the world, including Chile, Russia, South Africa, and Iraq. The film argues that the use of this doctrine has led to the widespread exploitation of vulnerable populations and that it has been used to devastate social services and infrastructure in many countries.

One of the key themes explored in the show is the relationship between economic ideology and the use of shock. The film argues that the implementation of neoliberal economic policies, such as austerity measures, has been closely linked to the use of the shock doctrine. It shows how these policies have been implemented rapidly and without public consultation in the wake of various crises, leading to widespread social and economic upheaval.

Throughout the film, the directors utilise a range of techniques, including interviews, news footage, and animation, to illustrate complicated concepts and make the issues discussed in the film accessible to a broad audience. There are also several examples of people who have fought back against the shock doctrine and prevalent neoliberal policies.

Overall, the show is a gripping and powerful exploration of one of the most controversial theories of recent times. It is a timely reminder of the importance of vigilant and informed opposition to policies that have the potential to cause widespread harm to vulnerable populations. Through exploring the impacts of disaster capitalism on communities throughout the world, The Shock Doctrine is not only a call to action but a condemnation of the devastation wreaked by those who seek to exploit the vulnerable for their own gain.