Philosophical Critique of Modernity: An Analysis from the Perspective of Marx's Ontology

Author: Zhang Youkui
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-10-01
Features: The tide of history has unhesitatingly swept willing and unwilling people into modernity. The greatest peculiarity of modernity, this monstrous entity, lies in the fact that authentic existence can only manifest itself in an inverted form of materialization. This materialization has given rise to economic imperialism and has also made the fate of humanity enigmatic. Humanistic and social scientists concerned with the future of humanity have examined modernity from various angles, composing a polyphonic chorus. An ear attuned to discerning tones can hear a resounding note in this chorus—the voice of Marx. Based on a dialectical analysis from the perspective of Marx's ontology, the author differs from both empirical science and Heidegger's understanding of humanism, thereby overcoming simplistic agreement or emotional condemnation. It reveals the metaphysical roots of modernity, defines its boundaries, and offers glimpses of humanity's future. Analyzing modernity from the perspective of Marx's ontology is still relatively rare in domestic academic works.