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The "theistic existentialism" of the French Catholic philosopher Gabriel Marcel is too little known in the English-speaking parts of the world, and too often assimilated uncritically to the philosophy of Sartre, to which it is in many respects diametrically opposed. Marcel preferred to call his thought "Neo-Socratic" to avoid this confusion. Marcel strove for continuity in his philosophy. He developed his theme of the priority of existence over abstraction, for instance, from the cogito of Descartes. And although his critique of idealism and his defense of faith resemble Kierkegaard's criticism of Hegel, Marcel denies that faith is an irrational leap or that the individual stands alone in his faith. This volume is the first comprehensive study of Marcel's thought. The variety and quality of the critical essays, as well as the immediacy of Marcel's own autobiography and replies (which take the form of personal letters) make this volume a major event in religious and cultural as well as philosophical thought. Gabriel Marcel: An Autobiographical Essay
E.M. Cioran:
Gabriel Marcel: Notes for a Character Sketch Bibliography of
the Writings of Gabriel Marcel Questions or comments should be directed to Library of Living Philosophers Return to Library of Living Philosophers Home Page | Return to Published Volumes | Philosophy Home Page ***Last Update 04/24/2007 mdt *** |
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