Heidegger and the Problem of Phenomena

This book provides a comprehensive critical study of Heideggers lifelong effort to understand the nature of phenomena and phenomenology. It explores the tension between his phenomenological approach and his radical historicism, assessing the philosophical power and problems of his attempts to account for the structure of phenomena and the ethical-existential significance of other persons. It also examines his political engagement in National Socialism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 26 August 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This comprehensive book delves into Heidegger's lifelong endeavor to grapple with the fundamental question of phenomena and the essence of phenomenology. It explores the profound inquiry into how we perceive beings as meaningful phenomena and the methodological challenges involved in phenomenologically describing and elucidating our experiences of these phenomena. The book unfolds as a chronological examination of Heidegger's philosophical journey, spanning from the early Freiburg lecture courses of 1919 to 1923, through the Marburg period, culminating in the publication of Being and Time in 1927.

A central theme that permeates the book is the interplay between Heidegger's efforts to elaborate Husserl's phenomenological approach by applying it to our pre-theoretical encounter with existentially charged phenomena and his inclination toward a radically historicist mode of thinking. Throughout the book, the author critically examines and assesses Heidegger's key engagements with Husserl, shedding light on the philosophical nuances and complexities of Heidegger's philosophical development.

In addition to providing a fresh and comprehensive interpretation of Heidegger's philosophical evolution, the book also critically evaluates the philosophical strengths and limitations of Heidegger's subsequent attempts to account for the structure of phenomena and the viability of phenomenology. Specifically, it develops a robust critique of Heidegger's radical historicism, arguing that it ultimately hinders his ability to address both the truth of our understanding and the ethical-existential significance of other individuals.

Furthermore, the book includes a chapter that delves into the philosophical underpinnings that drive Heidegger's political engagement in National Socialism. This exploration sheds light on the ethical and philosophical dilemmas that Heidegger faced during this period, highlighting the complexities and contradictions within his thought.

Overall, this book offers a profound and insightful exploration of Heidegger's philosophical endeavors, providing valuable insights into the nature of phenomena, phenomenology, and the ethical dimensions of human existence. It is a must-read for scholars and enthusiasts of philosophy, offering a rich and nuanced perspective on one of the twentieth century's most influential thinkers.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350262331