Sartre on Contingency: Antiblack Racism and Embodiment

Jean-Paul Sartre's existentialist philosophy provides the ontological basis for understanding the situation of black people in an antiblack world. His concept of contingency, which states that whatever exists, need not exist, and that one is born white or black without their choice, is particularly significant in addressing racism. This book argues that Sartre's philosophy can be applied to address the problem of racism against black people.

Format: Hardback
Length: 318 pages
Publication date: 11 October 2021
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The issue of antiblack racism has a rich and complex history, spanning centuries, and has been the subject of intense scrutiny and debate by thinkers throughout the world. Few philosophers have been as vocal in their opposition to institutionalized racialism as Jean-Paul Sartre, both in his intellectual writings and his political activism. In this book, we argue that there is a profound connection between Sartre's existentialist philosophy and antiracism, and that his existential ontology provides the foundation for his unwavering anti-racist social and political commitments.

Sartre sought to delve into the intricacies of human existence, aiming to understand the plight of black individuals in an antiblack world. His philosophical exploration of consciousness and the human condition laid the groundwork for a deeper understanding of the experiences of black people. By examining the concept of contingency, Sartre challenged the notion that one's race or ethnicity determines their worth or moral standing. He argued that the fact of being born white or black is a matter of chance, and that individuals should not be held accountable for circumstances beyond their control.

Through his philosophical notion of contingency, Sartre offers us valuable insights into the problem of racism against black people. He shows us that racism is not an inherent characteristic of human nature but rather a social construct that can be dismantled. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the inherent equality of all individuals and challenging the hierarchies and biases that perpetuate racism.

In this book, we explore how Sartre's philosophy can be applied to address the issue of antiblack racism. We examine his early writings, which provide a rich source of ideas and concepts that can be used to challenge and dismantle racist ideologies. We also discuss the relevance of Sartre's ideas in contemporary society, where racism continues to be a pressing issue.

By examining the connection between Sartre's philosophy and antiracism, we hope to provide readers with a deeper understanding of the complexities of the issue and inspire them to take action against racism in all its forms. We believe that Sartre's existentialist perspective offers a powerful tool for combating antiblack racism and for building a more just and equitable world.

Weight: 621g
Dimension: 226 x 163 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538157039