The Parallax View

https://www.letusthinkaboutit.com/step-78-the-parallax-view/

Ryder discusses the concept of Slavoj Zizek's "The Parallax View" in three parts.

Part 1: Ryder defines the parallax view as the convergence of seemingly parallel perspectives. He draws a connection to optical illusions of perspective and discusses how the parallax view involves looking beyond the central focus point. The author also touches on its use in astronomy.

Part 2: Ryder discusses Slavoj Žižek's use of the parallax view in his book and how it reconsiders the traditional Hegelian dialectic of synthesis or sublation. He explains how Žižek's approach doesn't seek to overcome oppositional positions but acknowledges their inherent contradictions as perspectival points. (This involves Lacan, Freud, Marxism, and Levi-Strauss's sociology, and more.)

Part 3: Ryder provides two examples of how the real-life parallax view works. First, he discusses faith and love as a parallax, emphasizing the need to change one's position to understand faith truly. Second, he references a scene from the movie "Guardians of the Galaxy" to illustrate how understanding can shift over time, emphasizing the importance of changing perspectives. He also shares the paralysis that multiple positions can invoke.