Hanzi Freinacht

Hanzi Freinacht
Known for	Metamodern politics; developmental theory
Fields	Metamodern political philosophy; developmental sociology
Occupation	Philosopher; sociologist; author
Notable works	The Listening Society; Nordic Ideology
Pseudonym of	Daniel Görtz; Emil Ejner Friis
Movement	Metamodernism
Era	21st century

Hanzi Freinacht is the pseudonymous author of a series of books and essays on metamodern politics and social development. Under this pen name two Scandinavian thinkers, Daniel P. Görtz and Emil Esper Friis, present a vision of society that emphasizes psychological growth and human development. Freinacht’s philosophy combines modernist optimism and postmodern critique into a framework that calls for a “listening society” – one in which policies and institutions nurture citizens’ inner lives and emotional well‐being as much as their material needs. His best-known work is The Listening Society: A Metamodern Guide to Politics, Book One (2017). Together with its sequels and related writings, his ideas have influenced a small but growing circle of metamodern thinkers and activists.

Early Life and Education

Because “Hanzi Freinacht” is a pen name, no real person by that name has a biography. In public appearances and writings the persona of Hanzi is often depicted as an eccentric philosopher living in the Swiss Alps or traveling mysteriously through Europe. In reality, Freinacht’s books are written by two individuals, Daniel P. Görtz and Emil Esper Friis, who teamed up around 2017. Daniel Görtz is a Swedish political philosopher and sociologist (Ph.D. Lund University) who blogs and lectures on metamodernism. Emil Friis is a Danish-born thinker and teacher of metamodern ideas. Both are co-founders of the Metamoderna network – a collective and publisher (based in Poland) dedicated to the study and dissemination of metamodern philosophy. Metamoderna produces Hanzi Freinacht’s books as well as related essays, podcasts and courses. The authors sometimes refer to Hanzi Freinacht in the third person, but when speaking plainly they identify themselves as Daniel and Emil, describing Hanzi as a “collective” or fictional persona.

Aside from their metamodern writings, details of Görtz’s and Friis’s education and careers are scarce. Görtz’s background in sociology and philosophy is evident (for example, he has worked as an “in-house philosopher” for a Swedish tech firm). Friis similarly operates as an independent writer and teacher of metamodern thought. They frequently appear on podcasts and online forums explaining metamodern viewpoints. By design they blur the line between author and persona: much of Hanzi’s “biography” (such as hermit-like solitude) is narrative license. The real authors have lived in Denmark and Sweden and collaborated closely for years.

Major Works and Ideas

Freinacht’s major works form a trilogy of “Metamodern Guide to Politics” books plus other writings, all revolving around a key idea: that human psychological development should be society’s guiding principle. His book The Listening Society (2017) lays out the core theory, and Nordic Ideology: A Metamodern Guide to Politics, Book Two (2019) extends it to political practice, especially in the context of Nordic welfare societies. He has also written shorter works like 12 Commandments: For Extraordinary People to Master Ordinary Life (a self-help style guide infused with his philosophy) and is working on future volumes such as The 6 Hidden Patterns of History and Outcompeting Capitalism.

At the heart of Freinacht’s philosophy is a developmental sociology and integral approach: societies (like individuals) advance through stages of complexity. Influenced by theorists such as Piaget, Clare W. Graves (Spiral Dynamics), Carol Gilligan, and Ken Wilber, Hanzi insists that political and cultural problems often stem from the fact that people are at different “stages” of maturity. He argues that modern liberal-democratic capitalism (what he calls “the modern stage”) has reached its limits. What is needed is a transition to a metamodern stage of society – one that goes beyond merely material welfare to foster inner growth.

In The Listening Society, Freinacht introduces a four-dimensional model of development. To understand an individual or society, one must consider:

Cognitive Complexity: how sophisticated logically one can think (from concrete to systemic reasoning).
Symbolic Culture (Metamemes): the prevailing worldview or value “code” a person or culture uses (for example, mythic religious, rational scientific, postmodern relativist, or emergent metamodern thinking).
Subjective States: the average emotional/experiential level people live in, on a scale from very negative to high positive (from suffering to enlightened states).
Depth of Personality: how many different states one has truly experienced and integrated into their self-concept.

Freinacht holds that all four axes contribute to a person’s “effective value meme,” a single combined score indicating where they fit in history’s unfolding. For instance, an Enlightenment-era thinker might have lower cognitive complexity (no physics knowledge) but high depth and even mystic experiences, giving them an unexpectedly high effective level. The model implies that societies have a “gravity point” of development: most citizens cluster around a certain stage (e.g. Modern, Postmodern, or Nordic Big Welfare). According to Hanzi, advanced Western societies currently center on the modern stage, with elites flirting with higher postmodern/metamodern levels.

From this framework, he draws political conclusions. In Freinacht’s view, most problems in rich countries are psychosocial rather than purely material. Issues like anxiety, loneliness, depression, and alienation are widespread. Traditional progressivism (he critiques) focuses on culture wars and identity (the “woke” agenda) while neglecting these inner needs. Meanwhile, large groups of “ordinary people” feel left out of change. To remedy this, Freinacht proposes that public policy explicitly support citizens’ psychological development. For example, the welfare state should include expanded mental health care, life coaching, spiritually oriented education, and cultural projects – anything that helps individuals grow emotionally and cognitively.

Freinacht encapsulates this by saying the “king’s road to a good future society” is personal growth. In other words, a better society emerges when people themselves become more mature and compassionate. This idea leads to what fans call political metamodernism: a strategy that transcends the usual Left/Right divide. Freinacht often describes his project as a kind of Green Social Liberalism 2.0. It is “green” in valuing ecological sustainability, “social” in caring for the vulnerable, and “liberal” in defending individual rights – but it also accepts certain hierarchies and a meritocratic element that postmodern leftists might dislike. For instance, he argues that elite expertise and leadership are sometimes necessary to guide society’s transition to higher stages.

In practice, Nordic Ideology (Book Two) outlines how to start building this next-stage society. It surveys progressive Nordic countries (Sweden, Denmark, etc.) as experiments in social trust and education, and suggests extending their welfare structures. Freinacht introduces six “new politics” or institutional innovations (e.g. greater participatory democracy, networks of care, technology governance, etc.) designed to make the state more responsive to people’s inner lives. He uses examples like universal basic services, cooperative economies, and “mental development ministries” (conceptually) to illustrate a future where every citizen is genuinely seen and heard. The book argues that once a society prioritizes citizens’ emotional and intellectual maturation, many problems (crime, violent extremism, consumerism) wilt.

Beyond books, Freinacht’s core ideas often appear as concise maxims: for example, he bluntly states that he “spits in the face” of current ideologies to break illusions and force reflection. He insists that difficult truths – such as the limits of pure egalitarianism or the perils of unexamined technology – must be spoken plainly. Yet his followers note he mixes this with levity and poetry, aiming ultimately at a hopeful vision of our possible future. Overall, Freinacht’s work can be seen as a developmental theory of society: it treats history and politics as a process of humans collectively evolving through higher and higher stages of awareness.

Method

Freinacht’s writing style and method are as distinctive as his content. Adopting the Hanzi persona, the authors write with dramatic flair: probing questions, direct challenges to the reader, and frequent asides in an ironic or humorous voice. He openly acknowledges that he is “not nice” and that much of his language (calling out prejudices or urging radical honesty) is meant to jolt and provoke. He uses terms like “overgrown idiots” or “woke progressives” and often addresses the reader with bracing candor. This confrontational tone is counterbalanced by a stated self-awareness: Freinacht claims to be “sincerely ironic,” meaning he delivers harsh critiques with an underlying generosity of purpose. In interviews and on metamodern forums, Freinacht often explains that this shock tactics serve to break down complacency and invite deeper reflection.

Literarily, Freinacht blends genres of philosophy, political manifesto, and self-help. His books contain long expository sections outlining theory, but also fantastical vignettes, rhetorical questions, and cosmic humor. He occasionally references history and science, though not in an academic way (most passages are un-cited and unfettered by academic rigor). Instead, he synthesizes ideas from multiple fields: psychology, sociology, evolutionary theory, complexity science, and spirituality. For example, he talks about neuroscience and subjective experience when discussing emotional states, and game theory and network science when designing new political institutions.

One key element of Freinacht’s method is the use of maps and models. He frequently presents multi-dimensional charts (like the four-axis development model above) to map individual consciousness onto society. These are conceptual aids – not empirical data charts – meant to guide thinking. He also uses color-coded “value memes” (alluding to Spiral Dynamics) and stage labels (archaic, mythic, modern, postmodern, metamodern) as shorthand for large historical trends. The books sometimes resemble strategy guides or video game design documents, listing currents challenges and proposed upgrades.

Another hallmark is the embrace of grand narrative. Freinacht does not shy away from speaking in sweeping terms about “humanity’s destiny” or “the laws of development.” He writes as if there is an underlying logic to history that his maps reveal. Whether or not one agrees, this gives his work a sense of coherence (though critics argue it may be largely speculative). It also means that readers find both strong idealism (“we can create a beautiful world”) and doing so through heavy-duty restructuring (“and here is exactly the hierarchy of metamemes and institutions you need”), often mixed together.

In sum, Hanzi Freinacht’s method is a deliberate mix of academic background and visionary rhetoric. He uses his academic knowledge of sociology and integral theory but packages it in provocative language designed to entertain and challenge a lay audience. The persona of Hanzi – equal parts guru and gadfly – allows his authors to play with tone. Ultimately, their works are best read as philosophical literature: inspiring hypotheses about society rather than empirical social science.

Influence

To date, Freinacht’s influence is mainly within niche intellectual circles rather than broad public policy. He is often mentioned as a leading voice in “metamodernism”, a cultural turn that has attracted attention from artists, writers, and some social critics. In the academic and policy mainstream, metamodernism remains relatively obscure, but among its adherents Freinacht is a central figure. His ideas have been taken up in discussions of alternative future scenarios, especially online podcasts, blogs, and conferences focused on new paradigms.

In Scandinavia and Europe, Freinacht helped spur a small “Nordic metamodernist” movement. The phrase “Nordic school of metamodernism” is sometimes used, acknowledging Daniel Görtz’s leadership in this space. In Sweden and Denmark, sympathetic thinkers have organized events (often by Metamoderna or allied groups) where Freinacht’s theories are taught. Emil Friis, for example, regularly offers online courses and webinars on metamodern politics through Metamoderna and related platforms (such as Dandelion events). Some progressive educators and “protopia” activists have found inspiration in his focus on play, creativity, and developmental learning.

There has been media coverage in progressive magazines and blogs that praise Freinacht as a fresh voice. A notable profile on the Boing Boing site (2022) lauded The Listening Society and Nordic Ideology as “thought-provoking” blueprints for a better future, and identified Hanzi as an “intellectual hero” of metamodernism. Similarly, podcasts like the Jim Rutt Show have devoted episodes to interviewing his authors, indicating interest among futurists and those exploring alternatives to technocratic capitalism. In academic circles, a few papers and book chapters on metamodernism cite Freinacht as a representative of metamodern political theory.

However, outside these circles his name is not widely recognized. His publishing imprint (Metamoderna) uses print-on-demand and online sales, so the distribution is mostly direct to readers already inclined toward alternative thinking. Sales figures are modest and no major translation deals have appeared (the works exist in English and some parts in Swedish). Nonetheless, the ideas themselves have found resonance: concepts like “developmental welfare state” and “psychological growth as political goal” appear in conversations among thinkers interested in integral ecology, new Left alternatives, and long-term future design.

In short, Hanzi Freinacht has become a respected voice among metamodernists and some progressive futurist groups. He helped define key terms (“metamodern politics,” “listening society,” “value memes”) for this emerging discourse. While it is too early to assess his lasting impact on society as a whole, he has influenced a generation of digital-savvy intellectuals in Europe and elsewhere who seek to move beyond old ideological frameworks. His persona and framing have also inspired creative works: a dedicated fan community has produced memes quoting his sayings, and even stage events where “philosophers” play-act Hanzi’s confrontational style for educational purposes.

Critiques

Freinacht’s approach has drawn criticism from several angles. One line of critique targets the substantiation of his claims. Scholars of development theory and sociology note that stage models – whether from Wilber, Spiral Dynamics, or Freinacht himself – are contested. Critics like integrative theorist Joseph Dillard argue that rigidly applying stages can oversimplify human psychology and risk moral judgment: anyone using such a model must assume the interpreter is objective and benignant. In practice, doubters point out, developmental theories can easily be misused to label groups or justify elitism. Freinacht’s own defense of stage theory sparked debate in where he claimed stage-aware politics avoids judgment; critics retorted that any hierarchical model inherently ranks people and cultures.

Linked to this, some commentators have accused Freinacht of elitism. The Listening Society and Nordic Ideology contain passages suggesting not everyone can reach the highest metamodern level – implying a naturally stratified society. Freinacht even writes that “elites and hierarchies” have a place in the metamodern order (unlike postmodernism which rejects them). This rankles readers who fear any ideology that sets a “loser class”. For example, Freinacht’s “designer babies” thought experiment – where he hypothetically ponders genetically engineering future generations to elevate cognitive stages – alarmed many as echoing eugenic ideas. Even if presented half-ironically, the suggestion that society has a moral duty to breed “ideal” future humans raised ethical eyebrows. Critics worry that by focusing on forging higher types of people, Freinacht underestimates the inherent worth of ordinary or disadvantaged individuals.

Freinacht’s tone and rhetoric are also polarizing. He deliberately uses provocative language (as noted, “pissing on sacred cows” is a phrase he uses). While fans find his bluntness refreshing, others see it as unnecessarily abrasive or macho. Phrases like “I am attacking your time, your society, and your way of living” (from Boing Boing paraphrase) can come off as condescending or angry rather than inviting dialogue. Some readers feel put off by the attitude of “I am on a higher level and you’re wrong,” even if it’s framed as ironic challenge. Traditional academics may dismiss the persona as a gimmick, and some progressives have criticized the generous use of outrage against “woke” politics. On social media, debates have flared between metamodernists and other left-wing thinkers over Freinacht’s portrayal of identity politics as superficial compared to his developmental vision.

Others critique substantive points: for instance, Freinacht’s assumption that the Nordic countries are on track to lead this metamodern shift is questioned. Some sociologists note that Scandinavia’s own challenges (rising nationalism, youth dissatisfaction) complicate the picture. Likewise, historians argue that claiming “development” as a single trajectory underplays that different societies value outcomes differently. For example, the focus on Western-style individual psychological maturation could be seen as culturally biased. Defenders say Freinacht is aware of “flattened” use of ideas across cultures, but critics remain cautious that his model implicitly ranks worldviews on a sliding scale.

In summary, Freinacht’s work is admired by many for its ambition and optimism, but it is criticized as speculative, ideologically one-sided, and stylistically confrontational. Readers seeking rigor may wish for more data and formal argumentation, while readers sensitive to hierarchical narratives may reject the premise altogether. Freinacht himself warns that his writing is not to be accepted uncritically, encouraging discussion. Nevertheless, like any bold social theory, his ideas continue to spark debate about how best to improve society.

Legacy

Hanzi Freinacht is still a living figure in contemporary thought, so any assessment of “legacy” is necessarily provisional. Within the small metamodern milieu, however, he is seen as a foundational thinker. His trilogy of books has provided a coherent program where there was none, advancing metamodernism from a general cultural label to a specific political blueprint. If metamodern ideas gain wider traction – for example in future discussions on progressive reform or post-capitalist economics – Freinacht’s name will likely be remembered as an early architect of those concepts.

He has also influenced the form of metamodern discourse. The use of a pseudonym/human-brand, the blending of satire with seriousness, and the format of online “metamodern guides” are part of his contribution. Metamodern activists hold Freinacht in the same sort of reverence that an evangelical leader might receive: a somewhat polarizing figure but undeniably central. In the Nordic countries, where some of these ideas have the most reach, he is often quoted in blogs and seminar series.

More broadly, Freinacht’s advocacy of psychological well-being as a political goal prefigures emerging trends. Ideas like “well-being economy,” “developmental welfare state,” and even tech-skilled “consciousness tools” have echoes in his work. Government initiatives around the world (in Bhutan, New Zealand, Scandinavian social policy experiments) that measure happiness or mental health explicitly can be seen as kindred topics. Freinacht may not have directly caused these trends, but his writings articulate them in a unique way and encourage their further spread.

Finally, if his upcoming books (Hidden Patterns, Outcompeting Capitalism) are released, they could extend his influence. These projects suggest he will touch on global history and economics, which could bring new readers. For now, his legacy is largely inside the metamodern movement: as an originator of key memes and as a voice that fused development theory with politics. In public consciousness at large he remains relatively obscure, but within his domain he is already regarded as one of metaphilosophy’s more colorful pioneers.

Selected Works

The Listening Society: A Metamodern Guide to Politics, Book One (2017). Freinacht’s first and best-known book, explaining the theory of developmental politics and arguing for a future welfare state that meets emotional needs.
Nordic Ideology: A Metamodern Guide to Politics, Book Two (2019). The sequel that builds on book one by outlining concrete political and institutional reforms, drawing examples from Scandinavian social models.
12 Commandments: For Extraordinary People to Master Ordinary Life (published date 2020s). A more lighthearted, self-help style book presenting twelve life rules aligned with Freinacht’s philosophy (e.g. embracing mediocrity with purpose).
The 6 Hidden Patterns of History (forthcoming). Announced project intended to identify recurring themes in long-term history through the lens of developmental theory.
Outcompeting Capitalism (forthcoming). Planned book proposing an economic system to replace or transcend capitalism, based on metamodern principles.

Timeline

2017 – The Listening Society is published by Metamoderna. Freinacht’s ideas begin to circulate online.
2019 – Nordic Ideology is released, expanding on earlier concepts. Metamodern blogs and podcasts start covering the books.
2020–2021 – 12 Commandments is published, showing Freinacht’s personal and cultural style beyond strictly political theory. Metamoderna hosts more seminars and interviews with the authors.
2022–2024 – Freinacht lectures via webinars and appears on podcasts (Jim Rutt Show, etc.). Metamoderna publishes excerpts of The 6 Hidden Patterns of History. Freinacht’s framework gains modest following in alt-intellectual circles.
Upcoming – Outcompeting Capitalism and other projects are announced; courses and workshops continue. The metamodern network grows slowly, keeping Freinacht’s name in discussion.