Modernity: Vernunftspaltung

Ruthrof, H. (2006) Modernity: Vernunftspaltung. Philosophy Today, 50 (3). pp. 324-337.

Abstract

From cosmological mythology to fascism, unitary reason, this essay suggests, occupies a position of power; subjugates all other reasoning processes; assumes the rung of a highest generality; subsumes all other forms of reason; formalizes hierarchical differences; perpetuates its position in time; absorbs redefinitions of and within the hierarchy; ritualizes relations within the hierarchy; opposes competing hierarchies; and imposes sanctions for violations of relations within its order. 40 A modest critique of reason is introduced by Charles Taylor who advocates sensitivity to cultural specificity without giving up on such major Enlightenment principles as the dignity of the rational, disengaged individual; pursuit of happiness through labor, sexuality, marriage, family, and ordinary life as legitimate human aspirations; and the broader goal of universal justice and moral progress.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Murdoch Affiliation(s):	School of Arts
Publisher:	DePaul University
Copyright:	© DePaul University
Publisher's Website:	http://las.depaul.edu/philosophy/Resources/Philoso...
URI:	http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/11304

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