Philosophy, Freedom, Language, and their Others - by Elias Kifon Bongmba & Robert Manzinger (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Kantian and Hegelian conceptions of freedom guide this collection of essays that engage with the linguistic turn in continental philosophy to explore contemporary interpretations of freedom. Using a broad approach to the tradition of German Idealism, this volume considers its modern recasting of philosophy as a rigorous thinking practice with profound implications for individual and communal praxis and wellbeing.

Philosophy, Freedom, Language, and its Others further cultivates and demonstrates the freedom to think and engage philosophy in a critical dialogue with other fields of inquiry. This method is exemplified in the philosophy and teaching of Professor Jere P. Surber, whom this book honors by using his interdisciplinary method as a springboard for new understandings of freedom in contemporary life.

Expert scholars working in the philosophy of language, continental philosophy of religion, ancient philosophy, critical theory, and ethics engage seminal thinkers on freedom including Plato, Kant, Hegel, Kierkegaard, and Debord to provide a diverse range of perspectives on freedom. In so doing, they address the complex legacy of philosophical freedom across subjects from contemporary media and political patrimonial culture to literary imagination and the politics of Nelson Mandela.

Review Quotes

An exciting diverse foray into 'philosophy and its others', opening new perspectives on religion, politics, and the arts.
Richard McGregor, Professor of Religion, Vanderbilt University, USA

This excellent gathering of essays is a fitting tribute to how the impressive work of Jere Surber inspired others in many directions and dimensions. It shows both the capaciousness of Hegel's thought as well as the capacious reach of its diverse contributors. It illuminates in many ways how thought can embody the vocation of philosophy to engage with its significant others, in politics, literature, law, and social philosophy, to name some. Very warmly recommended.
William Desmond, David Cook Chair in Philosophy, Villanova University, USA

About the Author

Elias Kifon Bongmba is Harry and Hazel Chavanne Chair in Christian Theology, and Professor of Religion, Rice University, USA.

Robert Manzinger earned his PhD from the University of Denver, USA and the Iliff School of Theology, USA.