Martin Heidegger
Martin Heidegger: A Philosophical Luminary
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Martin Heidegger
Common Aliases: None
Birth and Death Dates
Born: September 26, 1889
Died: May 26, 1976
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: German
Profession(s): Philosopher, University Professor
Early Life and Background
Martin Heidegger was born in the small town of Meßkirch, located in the Baden region of Germany. His early life was marked by a strong Catholic upbringing, which initially led him to pursue studies in theology. However, his academic interests soon shifted towards philosophy, a transition that would set the stage for his future contributions to the field. Heidegger's early education was characterized by a deep engagement with classical philosophy, which laid the groundwork for his later explorations into existential and phenomenological thought.
Major Accomplishments
Heidegger is best known for his profound influence on 20th-century philosophy, particularly through his development of existential phenomenology. His major accomplishment lies in his ability to challenge and redefine traditional philosophical concepts, such as being, time, and existence. Heidegger's work provided a new lens through which to view human experience, emphasizing the importance of individual existence and the subjective nature of reality. His innovative approach to philosophy earned him a prominent position in the academic world, where he served as a professor at the University of Freiburg and later at the University of Marburg.
Notable Works or Actions
Heidegger's most notable work is undoubtedly "Being and Time" ("Sein und Zeit"), published in 1927. This seminal text is considered one of the most important philosophical works of the 20th century. In "Being and Time," Heidegger explores the concept of "Dasein," or "being-there," which he uses to investigate the nature of existence and the human condition. The book's complex analysis of time and being has had a lasting impact on existential and phenomenological philosophy.
In addition to "Being and Time," Heidegger's extensive body of work includes essays and lectures that further develop his philosophical ideas. His later works, such as "The Question Concerning Technology" and "Letter on Humanism," continue to be studied for their insights into the relationship between technology, language, and human existence.
Impact and Legacy
Heidegger's impact on philosophy is profound and far-reaching. His ideas have influenced a wide range of disciplines, including existentialism, hermeneutics, deconstruction, and postmodernism. Philosophers such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Maurice Merleau-Ponty, and Jacques Derrida have drawn upon Heidegger's work to develop their own theories, demonstrating the enduring relevance of his thought.
Despite his philosophical contributions, Heidegger's legacy is also marked by controversy due to his association with the Nazi Party during the 1930s. This aspect of his life has sparked ongoing debates about the relationship between his political views and his philosophical work. Nevertheless, Heidegger's influence on contemporary thought remains significant, as scholars continue to grapple with the complexities of his ideas and their implications for modern philosophy.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Martin Heidegger is widely quoted and remembered for his groundbreaking exploration of existential and phenomenological themes. His ability to articulate complex philosophical concepts in a way that resonates with the human experience has made his work a touchstone for those seeking to understand the nature of existence. Heidegger's emphasis on the importance of individual experience and the subjective nature of reality has inspired countless thinkers to question and redefine their understanding of the world.
Heidegger's quotes often capture the essence of his philosophical inquiries, offering insights into the human condition that continue to resonate with readers today. His exploration of themes such as authenticity, being, and time provides a rich source of reflection for those interested in the deeper questions of life. As a result, Heidegger's work remains a vital part of philosophical discourse, ensuring that his ideas and insights will be remembered and quoted for generations to come.
Quotes by Martin Heidegger
Martin Heidegger's insights on:
Has Dasein as itself ever freely decided, and will it ever be able to decide, whether it wants to come into “Dasein” or not?
Speaking a lot about something does not in the least guarantee that understanding is thus furthered. On the contrary, talking at great length about something covers things over and brings what is understood into an illusory clarity, that is, the unintelligibility of the trivial. But to keep silent does not mean to be mute... one who is mute still has the tendency to “speak.”... Authentic silence is possible only in genuine discourse. In order to be silent, Dasein must have something to say.
Do we know ourselves – our “self”? How are we supposed to be ourselves if we are not our selves? And how can we be our selves without knowing who we are, such that we are certain of being the ones we are?
The will to mastery becomes all the more urgent the more technology threatens to slip from human control.
Philosophy, then, is that thinkins with which one can start nothing and about which housemaids necessarily laugh. Such a definition of philosophy is not a mere joke but is something to think over. We shall fo well to remember occasionally that by our strolling we can fall into a well whereby we may not reach ground for quite some time.
Sartre expresses the basic tenet of existentialism in this way: Existence precedes essence. In this statement he is taking existentia and essentia according to their metaphysical meaning, which from Plato’s time on has said that essentia precedes existentia. Sartre reverses this statement. But the reversal of a metaphysical statement remains a metaphysical statement. With it he stays with metaphysics in oblivion of the truth of Being.
On this “way,” if to keep falling down and getting up can be called a way, it is always and only the same question of the “meaning of beyng” that is asked.