Constantin V. Boundas

I have not gotten too far into this book yet but if the chapter on existentialism is any indication this is an excellent survey of twentieth century philosophy. It contains a cogent summary of Sartre's views that inspires one to read Being and Nothingness. De Beauvoir's contribution to existentialism and how it affected her analysis in the Second Sex are underscored. The contrast between Sartre and Heidegger is clearly spelled out. Heidegger's involvement with the Nazis is discussed, and the author states that there is a consensus that this does not preclude recognition of the positive contributions of his philosophy, in particular with respect to existentialism. Heidegger himself disclaimed any ethical significance to his philosophy, and to the extent others have implied ethical consequences they have included progressive causes like environmentalism.… (mehr)