Article(print)1998

Requiem for a Selbstdenker: Cornelius Castoriadis (1922-1997)

In: Constellations: an international journal of critical and democratic theory, Volume 5, Issue 2, p. 141-160

Whitebook, Joel

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Abstract

Examines the life & career of Cornelius Castoriadis, calling him a Selbstdenker, a true independent thinker amid the shifting influences & trends of the 20th century. This is seen in Castoriadis's criticisms of existentialist, structuralist, & poststructuralist views on the novelty of history; study of psychoanalysis; notion of an autonomous society; & attacks on the USSR. Castoriadis's identification with the Greek philosophical tradition, sense of omnipotence, & intense enjoyment of life inspired total confidence in his own thoughts, made cooperation in political groups difficult, & enabled him to stand alone against criticism & disappointment. It is concluded that those who carry on his legacy will continue to struggle with the questions of modernity & revolution. T. Arnold

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