David J. Gauthier Livres

This exploration delves into the ethical and political ramifications of the debate between Martin Heidegger and Emmanuel Levinas regarding Place. Heidegger's philosophical journey is marked by a deep concern for humanity's uprooting in the modern era, where the oblivion of Being leads to inauthenticity and technological dominance. He offers ontological models that illustrate how individuals are situated within the "house of Being." However, this homecoming project has significant political implications, prompting Heidegger to adopt various political stances, from a focus on the "site" of politics to völkisch nationalism and solitary quietism. Levinas, deeply troubled by Heidegger's ideas, critiques his place-bound ontology for its aversion to transcendence, potential for tyranny, and failure to acknowledge human dignity, viewing it as a form of modern paganism. In contrast, Levinas presents an alternative vision of home as a sanctuary for wanderers, emphasizing its ethical potential through hospitality towards others. The book examines the Heidegger-Levinas debate, highlighting the concerns that drive their projects and the risks of chauvinism and rootlessness in contemporary politics of place. Ultimately, both philosophers advocate for a politics of place that balances ontological and ethical considerations, steering clear of both narrow tribalism and rootlessness.