Date of Award

2024-05-01

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Philosophy

Advisor(s)

Jules Simon

Abstract

Hannah Arendt faces the grotesque appearance of totalitarianism, and with bravery goes on the offensive, herself armed with contemporary philosophical tools of analysis, to do battle in the field of existential-phenomenology against this modern monster. Totalitarianism, birthed from the seeds of lawless action, claims to be the most lawful mode of human existence. The monstrous existence of totalitarianism demonstrates a crisis in the very foundations of modern manâ??s political mode of being. In order to find a solution to this modern political crisis Arendt closely studies the experience of constitution writing at the moment the men of action are about to will themselves into the abyss of freedom. The American Revolution, as a prior experience to constitution writing, gives Arendt the elements for a powerful instrument to wield against the modern monster of totalitarianism. From these revolutionary elements Arendt fashions an instrument to wield against totalitarianism, the vital activity of pluralistic power. But the shadow of totalitarianism runs deep in the spirit of man, who can easily be atomized. Arendt teaches one that one must enact thoughtfulness in our speech and be judicious in our action.

Language

en

Provenance

Received from ProQuest

File Size

100 p.

File Format

application/pdf

Rights Holder

Joseph De Leon Flores

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