Jacques Derrida: ‘Rock star’ philosopher

Feb 3, 2025

Discover the fascinating journey of Jacques Derrida, whose bold arguments shattered conventional philosophy at the 1966 talk. Explore the origins of his revolutionary theory of deconstruction, which continues to challenge Western thought. Hear about his cultural impact, from calls for curriculum decolonization to experimental art forms. His lasting influence extends into feminist literature and beyond. Witness the legacy of a thinker whose ideas still inspire critical conversations around truth and historical narratives.

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ANECDOTE

Derrida's Expulsion

Derrida was expelled from school due to anti-Semitic laws introduced during WWII.
This experience as an outsider shaped his philosophy and lifelong challenge of hierarchies.

ANECDOTE

Meeting at the Sorbonne

Derrida and Cixous met at the Sorbonne, where he lectured on the thought of death.
Cixous was captivated by his lecture and they later reconnected, forming a lifelong intellectual exchange.

INSIGHT

Derrida's Character

Derrida's questioning of established traditions led him to become a prominent philosopher.
He embodied philosophy in his daily life, yet also enjoyed everyday things like football and television.

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In 1966, at Johns Hopkins University in the US, a little-known glamorous French philosopher called Jacques Derrida took to the stage and eviscerated the prevailing philosophy of the day, making him an overnight sensation.

The following year, he published three hugely influential books making the case for his theory of “deconstruction”, which questioned the foundations of Western thought and knowledge.

Deconstruction’s influence can still be felt today: from calls to decolonise the curriculum, to experimental architecture, to feminist retellings of the classics. While the word “deconstruct” has become widely used.

On his death in 2004, The Guardian newspaper wrote: "Derrida's name has probably been mentioned more frequently in books, journals, lectures, and common-room conversations during the last 30 years than that of any other living thinker.”

Hélène Cixous is one of France's most influential writers and a lifelong friend of Derrida. She speaks to Ben Henderson.

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