The Pursuit of Existentialism

This book examines the survival of existentialism and its key themes, exploring its historical context and influence on contemporary philosophy.

In The Pursuit of Existentialism, the author delves into the enduring nature of existentialism, highlighting its key themes and concerns that continue to shape continental philosophy today. The book provides a comprehensive examination of the foundational figures of existentialism, such as Sartre, Camus, and Beauvoir, situating their contributions within the broader historical context. By drawing upon the philosophical legacies of Nietzsche and Kierkegaard, the author illustrates how these thinkers influenced the development of existential thought.

The narrative then transitions to explore the intricate heritage of post-Sartrean thought, tracing the evolution of existentialism from Heidegger to contemporary theorists. The book addresses various schools of thought, including Heidegger's critique of existentialism, the dissident surrealists like Bataille and Blanchot, and the contributions of feminist thinkers such as Arendt and Kristeva. Through this exploration, The Pursuit of Existentialism reveals the diverse interpretations and applications of existentialist ideas across different philosophical landscapes.

Additionally, the author examines the impact of postmodernist theorizing from figures like Baudrillard and Lyotard, psychoanalytic perspectives from Lacan and Žižek, and the political philosophy of Derrida and Badiou. This multifaceted approach underscores the relevance of existentialism in contemporary discourse, making The Pursuit of Existentialism a vital resource for anyone interested in the evolution of philosophical thought.