What is the effect of light as it measures the seasons? How does light leave different traces on the terrain - on a Pacific Island, in the Aegean Sea, high in the Alps, or in the forest? This book considers the expansiveness of nature and the range of human vision in essays about the effect of light and luminosity on place.
The Verge of Philosophy is in one sense a memorial for Sallis's longtime friend and interlocutor Jacques Derrida. The centerpiece of the book is an extended examination of three sites in Derrida's thought: his interpretation of Heidegger regarding the privileging of the question, Derrida's account of the Platonic figure of the good, and his interpretation of Plato's discourse on the elusive notion of the receptacle of all things, which Plato designates by the enigmatic word chora. Sallis's explorations are given added weight-even poignancyby his discussion of his many public and private philosophical conversations with Derrida over the decades of their friendship. The Verge of Philosophy thus simultaneously serves to mourn and remember a friend and to push forward the deeply searching discussions that lay at the very heart of that friendship.
Engaging with both contemporary and ancient philosophical themes, this work offers valuable insights for readers interested in the evolution of philosophical thought, particularly regarding Plato's influence. It presents a thorough examination of key concepts, encouraging deep reflection and serious consideration from scholars and enthusiasts alike.
John Sallis, a prominent philosopher at Boston College, explores complex themes in his works, including "Force of Imagination," "On Translation," and "Topographies." His writings delve into the nuances of imagination, the intricacies of translation, and the philosophical landscapes that shape our understanding of reality. Each book contributes to a deeper comprehension of philosophical concepts, making significant strides in contemporary thought.
The exploration of action serves as the focal point in this concluding volume of John Sallis's trilogy. Building on themes of being and thinking from the previous books, it offers a profound journey through the cosmos while examining the essence of humanity. Sallis presents thought-provoking meditations that highlight how individuals are grounded in their environments but remain free from being wholly defined by them, encouraging readers to reflect on the interplay between ethicality and imagination.
The book explores the philosophical discourse surrounding the assertion of metaphysics' end, a claim originating with Hegel. It delves into the meaning and implications of this closure, examining how contemporary thinkers engage with and challenge this notion. Through critical analysis, it addresses the significance of metaphysics in modern philosophy and the debates it incites regarding the nature of reality and existence.
The book delves into the elemental aspects of nature and the role of imagination in human experience, exploring a wide array of phenomena like perception, the body, and the cosmos. Sallis creates unique discourses for each topic while reflecting on the nature of discourse itself, including voice and dialogue. His systematic investigations are enriched by interpretations of key philosophical figures such as Plato, Kant, and Hegel, alongside discussions of phenomenology and hermeneutics, offering a comprehensive examination of philosophical thought.
Focusing on German Idealism, this volume explores the evolution of philosophical thought from Kant to Fichte and Schelling. John Sallis offers insightful interpretations of key texts, emphasizing themes of freedom, the subject-object relationship, and the imagination. The book begins with Kant's philosophy and its reception, followed by an in-depth analysis of Fichte's Wissenschaftslehre and Schelling's contributions. Sallis's clear exposition and relevance to contemporary philosophy make this work appealing to both general readers and specialists.
The exploration of Cao Jun's artistry showcases the intricate relationship between philosophy and visual expression. John Sallis delves into the themes and concepts embedded within Jun's work, highlighting the cultural and aesthetic significance of the art. Through thoughtful analysis, the book reveals how Jun's creations reflect broader philosophical ideas, making it a profound commentary on the intersection of art and thought in contemporary Chinese culture.
Focusing on Martin Heidegger's Being and Time, this volume compiles John Sallis's lectures from two different academic years, providing a comprehensive synthesis of his teachings. The significant gap between the two courses allows for a nuanced understanding of Heidegger's work, reflecting on the developments in the field during that time. Aimed at both students and advanced scholars, this collection enhances accessibility to Heidegger's complex ideas while fostering deeper engagement with his philosophy.