The Understanding of Difference in Heidegger and Derrida
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Date
1990-12
Authors
Donkel, Douglas Lee
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
In this study, I offer an account of the relationship between Heidegger's notion of difference and Derrida's notion of difference in light of the question of Being. I argue that, while Derrida's account of difference calls into question Heidegger's characterization of difference as that which allows for presence, this same account calls itself into question as well, that is, in the manner of the liar paradox--if it is true, it is false--which is just to say it is undecidable in the Derridian sense of the term. I come to these conclusions through a close reading of Heidegger's Identity and Difference and Derrida's Speech and Phenomena, where I uncover a motif of external and internal relations which I employ in contrasting difference and difference.
In addition, this study is concerned with the doctrine of God, a doctrine which I suggest is closely related to Heidegger's question of Being insofar as both attempt to account for the genesis of things. I argue that, while Heidegger's account undercuts traditional theism, the problematization of the question of Being by virtue of difference suggests that the theological project, insofar as it involves giving an account of the absolute, i.e., God, has likewise been called into question. I suggest further that this situation indicates the need to redirect the concerns of theology toward interpersonal and social issues, and that this move does not set a precedent insofar as certain Western and Eastern approaches have always valued releasement from doctrinal attachments as a way to encourage the best in human relations.
Description
313 pages
Keywords
philosophy, difference, Hermeneutics, Heidegger, Derrida, being