Zoographies: The Question of the Animal from Heidegger to Derrida [Paperback]

Matthew Calarco (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0231140231 | ISBN-13: 978-0231140232 | Publication Date: June 13, 2008

Zoographies challenges the anthropocentrism of the Continental philosophical tradition and advances the position that, while some distinctions are valid, humans and animals are best viewed as part of an ontological whole. Matthew Calarco draws on ethological and evolutionary evidence and the work of Heidegger, who called for a radicalized responsibility toward all forms of life. He also turns to Levinas, who raised questions about the nature and scope of ethics; Agamben, who held the "anthropological machine" responsible for the horrors of the twentieth century; and Derrida, who initiated a nonanthropocentric ethics. Calarco concludes with a call for the abolition of classical versions of the human-animal distinction and asks that we devise new ways of thinking about and living with animals.

(1/1/09)

Editorial Reviews

Review

Matthew Calarco's book combines a passion for his subject matter with a keenly penetrating grasp of the complex issues which 'the question of the animal' raises at this juncture of Western history.

(Edward Casey, Distinguished Professor, State University of New York at Stony Brook )

This important analysis is long overdue... Highly recommended.

(Choice )

Review

Matthew Calarco's Zoographies is that rare breed of book that manages to provide both a critical overview and incisive intervention on the terrain of what is now called 'the question of the animal.' Lucidly written and judiciously argued, this book is required reading for those interested in exploring the most searching and innovative attempts in contemporary thought to confront our moral obligations to nonhuman beings. That confrontation, as Calarco demonstrates, cannot leave the very nature of 'humanity' itself unchanged.

(Cary Wolfe, Bruce and Elizabeth Dunlevie Professor of English, Rice University )

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 184 pages
• Publisher: Columbia University Press (June 13, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0231140231
• ISBN-13: 978-0231140232
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #486,270 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.