Theory and Practice

In Theory and Practice, Jacques Derrida presents nine lectures that critically engage with Marxist thought, challenging the distinctions between theory and practice.

Now available in paperback, Theory and Practice presents a compelling collection of nine lectures by Jacques Derrida, delivered at the École Normale Supérieure during 1976 and 1977. These lectures delve into the complex relationship between theory and practice, particularly as it pertains to Marxist discourse. Derrida engages critically with the influential interpretations of Marx by Louis Althusser, posing thought-provoking questions that challenge the traditional distinctions between thinking and acting. This exploration reveals Derrida's intent to unsettle established philosophical boundaries and invites readers to reconsider how these concepts interact in the realm of Marxist theory.

At the core of Theory and Practice is a close examination of Marx's “Theses on Feuerbach,” especially the eleventh thesis, often considered a call for the 'end of philosophy' through Marxist practice. Derrida argues that Althusser's work does not actually advocate for this end but rather remains entrenched in philosophical discourse. Through his lectures, Derrida highlights the ongoing philosophical implications of the theory/practice dichotomy, drawing intriguing parallels between Marxist thought and the ideas of Heidegger.

This text marks a significant moment in Derrida's engagement with Marx, predating his later work in Specters of Marx. Available in English for the first time, Theory and Practice offers readers a unique opportunity to witness Derrida's intellectual process—characterized by spontaneity, unpredictability, and groundbreaking insights—making it an essential read for those interested in philosophy, Marxism, and critical theory.