Alexandre Kojeve: A Man of Influence

This edited volume explores Alexandre Kojève's work from different perspectives, highlighting the continuity between his early influences and his pedagogical and practical approach. It examines his understanding of art, religion, atheism, Hegel, Marx, and Carl Schmitt, as well as his conceptions of the "end of history" and "empire" in the light of Sophia or "Wisdom." The authors also explore the extent to which Kojève's processing of non-philosophical and philosophical influences resulted in his notion of authority, the Lacanian mirror-stage, and global trade.

Format: Hardback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

This edited volume offers a comprehensive exploration of Alexandre Kojève's multifaceted work, delving into the intricate connections between his early reception of diverse influences and his potential pursuit of pedagogical and practical applications. The book is divided into two parts, each presenting a distinct perspective on Kojève's thought.

The first part consists of six essays, each authored by experts in their respective fields. These essays delve into Kojève's profound understanding of art, religion, and atheism, as well as his engagement with the ideas of Hegel, Marx, and Carl Schmitt. The authors shed light on Kojève's interpretation of these influential thinkers and their impact on his philosophical development.

The second part of the book comprises two insightful contributions. The first essay examines Kojève's conceptions of the "end of history" and "empire" in the context of his notion of Sophia, or "Wisdom." The author explores how Kojève interprets these historical phenomena through the lens of Sophia, highlighting the philosophical implications and implications for political and social thought.

The second essay delves into Kojève's understanding of the relationship between philosophy and power, particularly in light of his exegetical reading of the debate he held with Leo Strauss. The author examines how Kojève interprets the power dynamics between philosophy and political authority, exploring the ethical and political dimensions of this relationship.

The final three essays in the book take a more practical approach, seeking to explore the extent to which Kojève's previous processing of non-philosophical and philosophical influences might have resulted in three increasingly concrete outcomes. The first essay examines Kojève's notion of authority, exploring how it emerges from his philosophical framework and its implications for political and social order. The second essay explores the Lacanian mirror-stage, a key concept in Kojève's thought, and its relevance to the understanding of human subjectivity and the dynamics of power. The third essay examines global trade, focusing on Kojève's analysis of the economic and political implications of international commerce and its relationship to the broader philosophical project of Kojève.

In conclusion, this edited volume provides a rich and multifaceted exploration of Alexandre Kojève's work, offering a comprehensive understanding of his philosophical ideas and their applications in various fields. The authors employ a range of analytical approaches, drawing from various disciplines, to shed light on Kojève's thought and its enduring significance. This book will be of interest to scholars and students of philosophy, political science, history, and cultural studies, as well as anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of contemporary intellectual discourse.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793654465