What is meant when academics now talk about a "bare life"?

This might be helpful:

http://maillists.uci.edu/mailman/public/mgsa-l/2003-March/001847.html

Hi epthk,

Because you were not satisfied with my answer, I have asked the
editors to remove it.  Perhaps another researcher can help you.

Best regards,
tlspiegel

apparently it means that they have nothing in life, kinda like a
drifter with no identity, just like how the jews were stripped down to
nothing but numbers as names.  how a drifter or nomad has no laws or
civil rights attached to him

Thanks. . That's pretty interesting.  It's pretty close to what I got
from the URL ref. I don't see a way to change my rating which I did
not originally intend to be harsh.  Anyway, I'd have given this answer
higher marks because it would save me time.  Thanks again!

Hi epthk,

I thought it was kind of strange for you to give me 2 stars, and then a $5 tip! 

At any rate, the editors have been notified re: me asking them to
remove my answer.  This is awkward to say the least because I cannot
ask them to now leave the answer intact - and it will most likely be
removed on Friday.

Would you like me to repost the same information as the answer, after
they remove the contents?

If you'd prefer to leave the question open I will certainly understand
- because it's entirely possible another researcher can come up with a
better explanation for you.

Please advise,

Best regards,
tlspiegel