"Martin Heidegger: Between Good and Evil" By Rüdiger Safranski
"Martin Heidegger: Between Good and Evil" is a biography of the influential philosopher Martin Heidegger, written by German philosopher and author Rüdiger Safranski. Safranski offers a detailed exploration of Heidegger's life and work, including his philosophical ideas and his controversial political views.The book begins by providing a background on Heidegger's life, including his upbringing in rural Germany, his education, and his early career as a philosopher. Safranski then delves into Heidegger's philosophical ideas, particularly his concept of "being-in-the-world" and his critique of modernity.One of the central themes of the book is Heidegger's relationship with Nazism. Safranski explores Heidegger's involvement with the Nazi party and his subsequent attempts to distance himself from it. He also examines Heidegger's philosophy in the context of his political views, arguing that there are troubling overlaps between the two.Throughout the book, Safranski offers a balanced and nuanced portrayal of Heidegger. While he is critical of some of Heidegger's ideas and actions, he also recognizes his immense contributions to philosophy and his enduring influence on contemporary thought.One of the strengths of Safranski's biography is his ability to explain complex philosophical concepts in clear and accessible language. He provides a detailed analysis of Heidegger's work, including his most famous texts such as "Being and Time" and "The Question Concerning Technology."However, some readers may find the book to be overly focused on Heidegger's personal life and political views, to the detriment of a deeper exploration of his philosophy. Additionally, Safranski's writing can be dense and academic, making it challenging for readers without a background in philosophy to fully engage with the text.Despite these limitations, "Martin Heidegger: Between Good and Evil" is a valuable contribution to the study of Heidegger and his philosophical legacy. It offers a nuanced and thought-provoking analysis of one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century, and raises important questions about the relationship between philosophy and politics.Safranski's biography is particularly relevant in today's political and intellectual climate, where the legacies of controversial thinkers such as Heidegger are increasingly being reevaluated. By examining Heidegger's life and work in detail, Safranski encourages readers to engage critically with his ideas and to reflect on the complex intersections between philosophy, politics, and morality.Overall, "Martin Heidegger: Between Good and Evil" is a compelling and informative biography of a complex and controversial figure. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of philosophy or the intersection between philosophy and politics.