Discover the Extraordinary Evolution of French Philosophy Since 1960

Throughout history, French philosophy has played a significant role in shaping intellectual thought and influencing various fields such as politics, literature, and arts. This article delves into the captivating world of French philosophy since 1960, exploring influential thinkers, groundbreaking theories, and the Oxford History of Philosophy as the ultimate guide in understanding this important intellectual tradition.

The Cultural and Intellectual Landscape of France in the 1960s

The 1960s marked a turning point in French philosophy, as it collided with political and social movements, challenging established institutions and traditional ways of thinking. With the civil rights movement in the United States, decolonization of African nations, and student protests across Europe, France experienced a wave of intellectual revival.

Intellectual figures such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Michel Foucault, and Jacques Derrida emerged during this period, reshaping the philosophical discourse and challenging prevailing ideologies. Their works addressed complex topics like existentialism, feminism, post-structuralism, and deconstructionism, influencing generations of thinkers and creatives worldwide.

Thinking the Impossible: French Philosophy Since 1960 (The Oxford History of Philosophy)

by Gary Gutting(1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

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The French 'Intellectuals' and Their Legacy

Jean-Paul Sartre, a prominent figure in existentialism, explored the concepts of freedom, authenticity, and the individual's responsibility towards society. His influential works like "Being and Nothingness" and "Existentialism is a Humanism" questioned the nature of existence and the importance of personal choice.

Simone de Beauvoir, a philosopher, feminist theorist, and Sartre's lifelong partner, examined gender inequality and advocated for women's liberation. Her book "The Second Sex" became a landmark feminist text, challenging traditional notions of femininity and the role of women in society.

Michel Foucault, known for his studies of power relations, sexuality, and disciplinary systems, introduced the concept of "biopolitics" and explored the nature of knowledge and control. His works, such as "Discipline and Punish" and "The History of Sexuality," broke new ground in philosophical and sociopolitical analysis.

Jacques Derrida, a key figure in post-structuralism and deconstructionism, questioned the nature of language, truth, and interpretation. His concept of "deconstruction" analyzed the inherent contradictions within texts and sought to reveal hidden meanings and power structures.

The Oxford History of French Philosophy

When it comes to gaining a deeper understanding of French philosophy since 1960, "The Oxford History of French Philosophy" stands as an invaluable resource. Written by renowned scholars, this authoritative work offers an in-depth exploration of the evolution, key movements, and major thinkers in French philosophy.

Through its comprehensive approach, the Oxford History provides readers with a chronological examination of French philosophy from the mid-20th century to the present day. It covers a wide range of topics, including the theories of individual thinkers, the impact of political movements, and the ongoing dialogue with other philosophical traditions.

The book also delves into the reception and influence of French philosophy beyond the borders of France, highlighting the global reach and significance of these intellectual contributions. It showcases how French philosophers have shaped and interacted with various disciplines, from literature and art to psychology and sociology.

Continuing the Legacy: French Philosophy Today

French philosophy continues to evolve and inspire contemporary thinkers worldwide. Figures such as Julia Kristeva, Bruno Latour, and Jean-Luc Nancy have emerged, creating new ideas and further expanding the philosophical landscape.

Julia Kristeva, a prominent feminist and literary theorist, explores the intersections of language, literature, and psychoanalysis. Her works, including "Powers of Horror" and "Revolution in Poetic Language," challenge traditional boundaries and offer alternative perspectives on subjectivity and identity.

Bruno Latour, known for his work in science and technology studies, examines the relationship between society and scientific knowledge. His concept of "actor-network theory" explores the agency and influence of non-human entities, questioning the boundaries between nature and culture.

Jean-Luc Nancy, an influential philosopher of the contemporary era, explores topics such as community, aesthetics, and ontology. His works, like "The Inoperative Community" and "Being Singular Plural," delve into the role of plurality, relationality, and the ethics of coexistence.

Embrace the Intellectual Journey of French Philosophy

French philosophy since 1960 continues to captivate intellectuals, scholars, and individuals seeking profound insights into the human experience. The Oxford History of French Philosophy provides a compelling narrative, documenting the evolution of ideas, exploring philosophical movements, and shedding light on influential figures.

Whether you're a seasoned philosopher or simply curious about the world of ideas, diving into the riches of French philosophy offers an enriching and thought-provoking experience. Explore the theories, challenge established norms, and embrace the intellectual journey that continues to shape our understanding of philosophy today.

Thinking the Impossible: French Philosophy Since 1960 (The Oxford History of Philosophy)

by Gary Gutting(1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	671 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	367 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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The late 20th century saw a remarkable flourishing of philosophy in France. The work of French philosophers is wide ranging, historically informed, often reaching out beyond the boundaries of philosophy; they are public intellectuals, taken seriously as contributors to debates outside the academy. Gary Gutting tells the story of the development of a distinctively French philosophy in the last four decades of the 20th century. His aim is to arrive at an account of
what it was to 'do philosophy' in France, what this sort of philosophizing was able to achieve, and how it differs from the analytic philosophy dominant in Anglophone countries.
His initial focus is on the three most important philosophers who came to prominence in the 1960s: Michel Foucault, Gilles Deleuze, and Jacques Derrida. He sets out the educational and cultural context of their work, as a basis for a detailed treatment of how they formulated and began to carry out their philosophical projects in the 1960s and 1970s. He gives a fresh assessment of their responses to the key influences of Hegel and Heidegger, and the fraught relationship of the new generation to
their father-figure Sartre. He concludes that Foucault, Derrida, and Deleuze can all be seen as developing their fundamental philosophical stances out of distinctive readings of Nietzsche. The second part of the book considers topics and philosophers that became prominent in the 1980s and 1990s, such
as the revival of ethics in Levinas, Derrida, and Foucault, the return to phenomenology and its use to revive religious experience as a philosophical topic, and Alain Badiou's new ontology of the event. Finally Gutting brings to the fore the meta-philosophical theme of the book, that French philosophy since the 1960s has been primarily concerned with thinking the impossible.