The return of Marx The contemporary interpretation of the original Marx philosophy

Author: Zhang Yibing
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-05-14
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 following their passing, thereby rekindling public attention. The historical fate of Marxist philosophy is no exception. Born in the 19th century, Marxist philosophy adapted to that era while simultaneously 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 key theories in Marxist philosophy into sharp relief, while also revealing the authentic spirit and contemporary significance of Marxist philosophy. Contemporary philosophers have been compelled to turn their gaze toward Marx's philosophy. Foucault argues that, in the present, it is impossible to study history beyond the intellectual horizon defined and described by Marx. Jameson points out that Marxist philosophy "is the cognitive mode we use today to restore our relationship with existence," offering an "untranscendable horizon of meaning." Derrida asserts: "We are all inheritors of Marx and Marxism," "we are still speaking in the code of Marxism," and "the future cannot do without Marx." The main part of this book is a refined and rewritten version of the author's influential work, Returning to Marx. Embracing the phenomenological spirit of "facing the thing itself," Returning to Marx draws heavily from classical economics and Hegelian philosophy, presenting an unwavering and meticulous philosophical effort to unravel the evolution of Marx's lifelong philosophical research, ultimately offering readers a genuine Marx. Additionally, the book provides a concise introduction to the author's work, The Subjective Dimension of Marx's Historical Dialectics, as well as recent significant and novel developments in contemporary Western Marxist studies. Unlike the dense and inaccessible academic facade typical of such works, this book guides readers step by step into the fascinating world of contemporary Marxist philosophy with clear and elegant prose. This is why the book is titled The Gods Meet Marx.