Masters Progress Review

MS Alexandra Cain

Abstract: In this presentation I outline the three chapters of my thesis. 

First I describe the problem that frames the thesis: how do we think the
political philosophically?  This problem is put forward in light of
Arendt’s and Lacoue-Labarthe and Nancy’s attempts to relinquish
traditional philosophy in favour of political theory.  In outlining
the second chapter I describe the problem more deeply, in terms of the
Kantian political subject.  I argue that while the Kantian political
subject has significant flaws, flaws which Arendt and Lacoue-Labarthe
and Nancy wish to avoid, they cannot simply relinquish the Kantian
metaphysical subject.  Finally, in the third chapter I attempt to show
that Schelling offers a philosophical framework which, in retaining
elements of Kant’s critical project, while inverting others, could
better ground the political theory of Arendt and Lacoue-Labarthe and
Nancy, by giving an account of political judgment while maintaining
the political as a sphere of action.