Heidegger on Language and Death: The Intrinsic Connection in Human Existence (Continuum Studies in Continental Philosophy)

Oberst, Joachim L.

ISBN 10: 0826498663 / ISBN 13: 9780826498663

Published by Continuum, 2009

About this Item

Seller Inventory # V9780826498663

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Heidegger on Language and Death: The Intrinsic Connection in Human Existence (Continuum Studies in Continental Philosophy)
• Publisher: Continuum
• Publication Date: 2009
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0826498663
• ISBN 13: 9780826498663
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: New

About this title

Synopsis

Martin Heidegger was one of the most influential philosophers of the 20th century. His analysis of human existence proves an inexhaustible ground for thinkers of all backgrounds who seek answers for their specific questions left open or opened up by our times. This book explores the intrinsic connection between two fundamentally human traits, language and death. Heidegger addresses each of these traits in depth, without ever explicitly outlining their relationship in a separate theory. However, in a close examination of Heidegger's magnum opus, Being and Time, Joachim L. Oberst uncovers a connection in three basic steps. Ultimately the author argues that the human invention of language is motivated by the drive towards immortality - language emerges from the experience of mortality as a response to it. This is a refreshing look at one of the most challenging and influential philosophers of our times.

About the Author

Joachim L. Oberst teaches in the Program in Religious Studies and the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures at the University of New Mexico, USA.