Topics Philosophers

Question I have just been introduced to the works of Heidegger, and have been shocked by the way some commentators condemn his writings. Is such condemnation justified?

Accepted:
February 9, 2006

Comments

This is a larger question than it appears. It goes to the heart of what philosophy is or should be. That is, what methods should be employed, what standards or virtues of expression, language, analysis or argumentation, what subject matters are philosophical, and so forth.

Heidegger is an important figure in what is sometimes called 'Continental' or 'European' philosophy. (Unfortunate names, but the ones most widely used). There are thousands of highly educated, widely published and read, and very distinguished philosophers who are working in this 'tradition'. Many of them disagree strongly with Heidegger, but at least take him seriously. However, there are, equally, thousands of philosophers of equal stature who either consider him to be incompetent as a philosopher, or just not philosophical at all.

I cannot answer your question, therefore. I can only advise you to read commentators who condemn Heidegger, and likewise commentators who take him seriously, whilst bearing in mind that what is really at stake is the nature of philosophy.

There is an additional problem, which is that Heidegger had an association with National Socialism. There is a historical debate as to what extent his philosophy is irretrievably contaminated, so to speak, by this. One's opinion on this debate might count as another good reason for condemnation.

Question I have just been introduced to the works of Heidegger, and have been shocked by the way some commentators condemn his writings. Is such condemnation justified? Accepted:February 9, 2006

Question I have just been introduced to the works of Heidegger, and have been shocked by the way some commentators condemn his writings. Is such condemnation justified?

Accepted:
February 9, 2006