Philosophy and Politics (A Reading of Althusser)

Author: [French] Althusser
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-01-01
Features: This translation collection is clear in its approach, first evident in the editor's accurate grasp of the development of Althusser's thought. The editor explicitly opposes the one-sided interpretations and applications of Althusser's thought both domestically and internationally. The selected articles are strictly limited to Althusser's theoretical journey of "self-criticism" (i.e., after 1967) and the theme of "philosophy and politics," accurately highlighting Althusser's uncompromising stance on materialism and class politics. After reading this translation collection and the editor's detailed and precise annotations, we can discover an "dominant" Althusser within the "plural Althussers" where "no various kinds and contradictory proofs can ever be exhausted": a Marxist scholar not only endowed with a spirit of self-criticism and extraordinary courage but also a heroic warrior who consciously engages in political struggles in his theoretical practice. This translation collection is divided into two parts, "The Politics of Philosophy" and "The Philosophy of Politics." Additionally, it includes evaluations of Althusser by Derrida and Jameson, as well as an exhaustive chronology of Althusser's life and works compiled by the editor. This collection features three lesser-known long essays: "The Spontaneous Philosophy of the Scientist (1967)," "Is It Easy to Become a Marxist in Philosophy?" and "Machiavelli and Us." In the editor's view, although these three essays are not considered Althusser's "main works," they play a crucial role in understanding the internal "configuration" of his theory. Louis Althusser is the spiritual father of several generations of radical intellectuals at the école Normale Supérieure, and his name signifies "a vigilant and modern reinterpretation of Marxism" (Derrida). His fate and reputation have become a symbol of the great political tragedy of the contemporary era. This selection follows his extraordinary journey of "self-criticism" and centers on his dedication to exploring the relationship between philosophy and politics. It includes newly translated works such as "Philosophy Lessons," which serves as the theoretical prelude to the great events of 1968, and "Machiavelli and Us," which stands as the author's final intellectual testament, along with carefully re-translated classic texts like "Ideology and Ideological State Apparatuses." A new image of Althusser will emerge, revealing the scale of "flowing intellect" that contemporary left-wing thought can possess.