Perspective of Post-Subjectivity Philosophy: A Contemporary Interpretation of Marxist Materialism: A Contemporary Interpretation of Marxist Materialism

Author: Wang Nanzhi
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-05-01
Features: History often presents a peculiar phenomenon where certain theories or even the entire doctrine of a great philosopher only fully reveal their intrinsic value after a long period of historical movement, rekindling people's attention. The historical fate of Marxist philosophy is no exception. Born in the 19th century, Marxist philosophy adapted to that era while also transcending it. A philosophy that merely adapts to the times cannot possess foresight. The historical movements of the 20th century and the developmental dilemmas of contemporary philosophy have brought the intrinsic value of some important theories in Marxist philosophy to the fore, while simultaneously revealing the authentic spirit and contemporary significance of Marxist philosophy. Contemporary philosophers are compelled to turn their gaze toward Marx's philosophy. Foucault believes that in the present era, it is impossible to study history beyond the intellectual horizon defined and described by Marx. Jameson points out that Marxist philosophy "is the cognitive framework we use today to restore our relationship with existence," offering an "untranscendable horizon of meaning." Derrida asserts that "we are all inheritors of Marx and Marxism," that "we are still speaking in the code of Marxism," and that "the future cannot do without Marx." The goal of this book is to expand a post-subjective practical philosophy horizon within the contemporary Chinese academic context and, from this perspective, offer a "new" interpretation of Marxist philosophy. Based on an examination of the relationship between theory and practice in previous philosophies, the author understands Marxist materialism as a philosophical path that reaches from material production activities to life practices, and provides corresponding reinterpretations in important areas such as dialectics, subjectivity, epistemology, and historical materialism.