Discipline of Philosophy Speakers Series

Discipline of Philosophy Speakers Series presents “World” in Günther Anders’ early thought: Epistemology, Anthropology, Phenomenology by 

Daria-Leona Mac Award (Paderborn University, Germany) 

Time:  Tuesday 7th October @ 1-2:30 pm (Lunch will be provided) 

Location:  AS203 River Room 

Abstract: I would like to take this opportunity to give an insight into Günther Anders’ work, that emphasizes his phenomenological roots, and the theoretical work which was later overshadowed, not only by World War II and exile, but also by his own doing: His main focus remained the same for decades. The dangers of technology, especially the nuclear complex. I will take statements from his dissertation, his anthropological writings as well as his epistemological analysis of experience. I will begin with some of his quotes and aspects regarding “world”, but to give a more nuanced and accurate account, I compare his concept of world to his notion and description of nature. For this, I take into consideration one of his early works from, namely Über das Naturtreffen (Encountering Nature (my transl.)1928). How can World be defined and contrasted to Nature? Based on this comparison, I would like to define the concept of world along with some characteristics it exhibits according to Anders. I think this could be another aspect worth a discussion.