Kierkegaard’s Case for the Irrelevance of Philosophy
Journal Title/Source
Continental Philosophy Review
Publication Date
2009
Volume
42
Issue (if applicable)
2
Page Numbers
221-48
DOI (if applicable)
10.1007/s11007-009-9104-2
Document Type
Journal Article
Department
Philosophy
Abstract
This paper provides an account of Kierkegaard’s central criticism of the Danish Hegelians. Contrary to recent scholarship, it is argued that this criticism has a substantive theoretical basis and is not merely personal or ad hominem in nature. In particular, Kierkegaard is seen as criticizing the Hegelians for endorsing an unacceptable form of intellectual elitism, one that gives them pride of place in the realm of religion by dint of their philosophical knowledge. A problem arises, however, because this criticism threatens to apply to Kierkegaard himself. It is shown that Kierkegaard manages to escape this problem by virtue of the humorous aspect of his work.
Recommended Citation
Aumann, Antony, "Kierkegaard’s Case for the Irrelevance of Philosophy" (2009). Journal Articles. 89.
https://commons.nmu.edu/facwork_journalarticles/89