European Intellectual History since Nietzsche Class 16: The Second Sex
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Feb 7, 2024 Explore Simone de Beauvoir's groundbreaking ideas on subjectivity and existentialism. Dive into her critique of traditional roles and the evolution of women's identities in society. Unpack the moral dilemmas faced in times of war, examining the tension between cowardice and honor. Delve into the shifting dynamics of gender and freedom, highlighting the importance of mutual recognition in challenging patriarchal norms. The discussion intricately weaves personal narratives with profound philosophical insights, revealing the complexities of identity and relationships.
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Thinking Defines Subjectivity
- Thinking is the core of subjectivity and being a subject entails responsibility and anguish.
- Avoiding this burden leads to losing subjectivity and becoming an object, which is a moral failure.
Family Story on Feminism's Impact
- Marci Shore shares a personal family story illustrating generational shifts in attitudes toward marriage and feminism.
- Her aunt credits reading Simone de Beauvoir as a pivotal influence that changed her life choices.
Kojev's Master-Slave Existentialism
- Alexander Kojev blends Hegelian master-slave dialectic with Heideggerian existentialism.
- Human existence is defined by negation of the given, creating a space for freedom and self-transcendence.
