Philosophy in Turbulent Times

Description

Philosophy in Turbulent Times: Canguilhem, Sartre, Foucault, Althusser, Deleuze, Derrida by Élisabeth Roudinesco is a compelling intellectual history that offers insightful portraits of six of the most influential French philosophers of the twentieth century. Roudinesco, a renowned historian and psychoanalyst, draws upon her extensive knowledge and personal encounters to craft a narrative that situates these thinkers within the complex political, social, and cultural landscape of post-war France. The book delves into the lives and ideas of Georges Canguilhem, Jean-Paul Sartre, Michel Foucault, Louis Althusser, Gilles Deleuze, and Jacques Derrida, exploring how each philosopher responded to the upheavals of their time—including World War II, the Algerian War, May '68, and the broader crises of modernity. Roudinesco presents these figures not as isolated intellectuals, but as deeply engaged thinkers whose work was shaped by and contributed to the turbulent political atmosphere in which they lived. Each chapter examines the philosophical contributions of its subject, tracing key concepts—such as Canguilhem’s philosophy of life, Sartre’s existentialism and political activism, Foucault’s analyses of power and knowledge, Althusser’s structuralist Marxism, Deleuze’s philosophy of difference and desire, and Derrida’s deconstruction. Roudinesco offers both critical analysis and personal reflection, shedding light on their friendships, rivalries, and the ideological battles that defined their era. Philosophy in Turbulent Times is more than just an introduction to these seminal figures; it is an exploration of how philosophy itself is shaped by historical forces and the personal commitments of those who practice it. Roudinesco’s elegant prose and deep understanding make this book an essential resource for anyone interested in contemporary philosophy, French intellectual history, and the enduring relevance of these thinkers today.