New Books in Intellectual History Trevor Wilson, "Alexandre Kojève and the Specters of Russian Philosophy" (Northwestern UP, 2024)
Feb 15, 2025
Trevor Wilson, author and expert in interwar European intellectual currents, discusses his latest work on Alexandre Kojève. He delves into Kojève’s pivotal role in 20th-century philosophy and the influence of émigré culture. The conversation highlights the complexities of translating philosophical texts, touching upon the intricacies of identity within migration and the challenges posed by Kojève’s illegible handwriting. Wilson also offers a glimpse into his writing routine during the pandemic, emphasizing the supportive roles of community and service workers in academic life.
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Kojève's Influence
- Alexandre Kojève, a Russian philosopher, emigrated after the 1917 revolutions.
- His Hegel seminars in 1930s France shaped continental philosophy, influencing figures like Simone de Beauvoir and François Fanon.
Specters of Russian Philosophy
- Kojève's work is haunted by Russian philosophical ideas, even if not explicitly mentioned.
- "Specters" describes this subtle yet persistent influence, shaping his thought.
Name Change and Accent
- Kojève changed his name from Kojève to Kojève around 1927 after emigrating to France.
- This symbolic act possibly marked a departure from his Russian identity, yet his accent remained.
