Walter Benjamin's "Theses on the Philosophy of History" is a concise yet profound work that critiques traditional historical narratives and offers a revolutionary approach to understanding the past. Benjamin challenges the linear and progressive view of history, arguing that it often serves to legitimize the status quo and obscure the experiences of the oppressed. He introduces the concept of 'historical materialism,' emphasizing the importance of material conditions in shaping historical events. The famous image of the 'Angel of History' powerfully captures the complexities of the past and its impact on the present. Benjamin's work has had a lasting influence on critical theory and historical studies.
In this influential essay, Walter Benjamin argues that mechanical reproduction devalues the 'aura' (uniqueness) of a work of art by making it reproducible on a mass scale. He discusses how this shift from cult value to exhibition value changes the role of art in society, making it more political and less tied to traditional ritualistic and magical functions. Benjamin also examines the impact of technologies like photography and film on the aesthetic experience, highlighting their potential for both revolutionary and propagandistic uses.
In this episode, I am joined by philosopher, filmmaker, and longtime friend Dr. Jeremy Fackenthal as we dive into the intricate philosophy of Walter Benjamin. We explore memory, history, suffering, and the weak messianic power that empowers us to redeem the past through remembrance. We also touch on the implications of Benjamin's thought for understanding the revolutionary potential in our present moment. Tune in for a nerdy, stimulating conversation that bridges theology and philosophy, grounded in historical materialism and some fun memories from our PhD days.
You can WATCH this conversation on YouTube.
Jeremy Fackenthal is a philosopher, non-profit director, and filmmaker living in San Diego, CA. He holds a PhD in Philosophy of Religion and Theology from Claremont Graduate University. He was previously director for Toward Ecological Civilization. He has shot and edited a number of films, including Spitting Fire, a short documentary produced in conjunction with ARC and a grant through Yale Divinity School. Jeremy researches and writes in the areas of process thought, theopoetics, and critical theory. He co-edited Theopoetic Folds: Philosophizing Multifariousness and Whitehead and Continental Philosophy in the Twenty-First Century: Dislocations and is currently beginning a documentary film on the relevance of Walter Benjamin for the 21st century.
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