

Episode 16: Historicity and Politics
24 snips Jul 29, 2020
Delve into the intriguing thoughts of philosophers grappling with death and birth, highlighting the power of new beginnings. Explore the tension between history and existence while pondering Nietzsche's critique of the present. Reflect on Heidegger's innovative views on historicity and politics, including authenticity and community. The discussion moves toward the significance of heritage versus tradition, challenging conventional historical narratives. It's a captivating journey through the intertwining of philosophy, power, and identity.
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Heidegger on Birth and Beginnings
- Heidegger challenges the idea that philosophy is death-obsessed by emphasizing birth and beginnings.
- He links history and change to the power of beginning, influencing his political thought and notion of revolution.
The Ring as Historicizing Anecdote
- Simon Critchley shares receiving his grandfather's ring from his grandmother, feeling connected to family history.
- He relates this to Heidegger’s idea that inheritance is more than a change of location, but a movement of historicizing.
Authentic vs Inauthentic Historicity
- Inauthentic historicity clings to the present's novelty, forgetting past significance.
- Authentic historicity embraces recurrence, understanding history as a repetition of possibilities requiring openness.