Indexicalism: The Metaphysics of Paradox

Hilan Bensusan's book explores a metaphysical perspective of the other, human and non-human, that cannot be fully understood. It develops an innovative account of perception through our situated relationship to the non-totalisable Outdoors and highlights the social-political implications through a post-colonial meditation on the sites of Potosi and Yasuni National Park. Bensusan engages with various philosophers to develop a transformative approach to thinking about our world and its responsibilities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Hilan Bensusan delves into the intricate logic and structure of a metaphysics that is fundamentally situated and indexical, presenting a paradoxical addition to the critique of metaphysics. Through his book, Bensusan articulates a metaphysical perspective on the other, encompassing both human and non-human entities (referred to as the "Great Outdoors" by Meillassoux). This perspective, he argues, cannot be fully encompassed or reduced to a singular or univocal whole. Consequently, an innovative account of perception emerges, rooted in our irreducibly situated relationship to this non-totalisable Outdoors.

To further underscore the social-political implications of this radical metaphysics, Bensusan engages with analytic and continental philosophy, drawing upon the insights of Levinas, Whitehead, Heidegger, Kripke, Deleuze, Derrida, Benso, Harman, Garcia, Cogburn, McDowell, and Haraway. His engagement with these thinkers proves transformative for both the critical aspects of their work and contemporary approaches to understanding our existence within the world and confronting the responsibilities that arise from our external surroundings.

In conclusion, Hilan Bensusan's book offers a profound exploration of metaphysics, challenging traditional notions and presenting a fresh perspective on the other. Through his innovative account of perception and his engagement with a range of philosophical thinkers, Bensusan contributes to a reimagining of our understanding of the world and our place within it. His work invites us to reflect on the responsibilities we bear and the transformative potential of a radical metaphysics in shaping our collective future.

Weight: 480g
Dimension: 164 x 244 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474480291