Modern Hospitality

Abstract

This essay examines the roots of modern anxiety, in particular the loss of ontological security, in relation to people’s impulse and ability to practice hospitality. It argues that hospitality is rooted in paradoxical notions of reciprocity. Reciprocity cannot be imposed: demanding that a guest conform to a host’s expectations denatures the act of hospitality itself. At the same time, absolute hospitality, or the idea of opening our doors unconditionally, is risky. We make ourselves vulnerable at a time where we’re already haunted by the idea that however much we do, it might not be enough to keep us safe. This vulnerability, however, is valuable because it is risky: showing vulnerability can have a humanizing effect for the people to whom we let ourselves become vulnerable because it demonstrates trust.