Jacques Derrida: Live Theory

(Paperback)

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Description

A key textbook on one of the major thinkers of our times. Jacques Derrida: Live Theory is a new introduction to the work of this most influential of contemporary philosophers. It covers Derrida's corpus in its entirety - from his earliest work in phenomenology and the philosophy of language, to his last work in ethics, politics, and religion. It investigates Derrida's contribution to, and impact upon such disciplines as philosophy, literary theory, cultural studies, aesthetics and theology. Throughout, the key concepts that underpin Derrida's thought are thoroughly examined; in particular, the notion of 'the Other' or 'alterity' is identified as embodying a fundamental continuity from Derrida's earliest to his last work. The text emphasises the importance of understanding Derrida's philosophical heritage as the key to understanding his project. Valuably, the text also considers recent engagement with Derrida in the analytic philosophical tradition and includes a new interview with Derrida himself, conducted specially for this book. Jacques Derrida: Live Theory is a key resource for anyone studying this major thinker and writer.

Reviews

'[will] excite and engage' -- Arnab Chatterjee, Political Studies Review
'Over the coming decades [Derrida's] work will be repeatedly examined to find what in it calls forth new futures for reading, writing and thinking. James K. A. Smith's lucid and comprehensive guide to Derrida places its readers in an enviable vantage point to see those diverse futures as they begin to arrive and change our lives.' Kevin Hart, Professor and Chair of English, University of Notre Dame * Blurb from reviewer *
'James K.A. Smith has written a lively, sure-footed guide to key landmarks in the immense territory of Derrida' thought .... The task of reading Derrida has only just begun and Smith's book issues an open and congenial invitation to get on with it. ' Peggy Kamuf, Marion Frances Chevalier Professor of French and Comparative Literature, University of Southern California * Blurb from reviewer *
Article by the author referencing the book throughout - ChristianityToday.com, October 18, 2004 * Christianity Today *
'James K. A. Smith's Jacques Derrida: Live Theory is extremely accessible - it is very well-written in a clear and attractive prose, moving smoothly across many different topics at a good pace ... his choice of themes offers a good representation of the main dimensions of Derrida's thought ... Smith takes the reader on an engaging and very lucid tour of Derrida's oeuvre.' -- Samir Haddad, Northwestern University * Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews *

Author Bio

James K. A. Smith is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Calvin College, Michigan.