Kierkegaard: An Introduction / by C. Stephens Evans

Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855) was a 19th century Danish philosopher who has been called the "Father of Existentialism". As one of the leading influences in the development of 20th century philosophy, his work has helped establish themes in theology and psychology as well as lay the groundwork for the Postmodern cultural movement. As both a philosopher and advocate for change, Kierkegaard was never appreciated in his time. He unpopularly critcized aspects of the philosophical systems that were brought on by philosophers such as German rationalist G.F.W. Hegel, Fichte and devotees of the same school of thought while simultaneously incorporating the outmoded Socratic model of philosophy into his work. Additionally, later on in life, his harsh indictment of the Danish Lutheran church largely ostracized him in his own hometown of Copenhagen.

One of Kierkegaard's most recurrent themes, and likely his most identifiable maxim, is the issue of subjectivity, that "subjectivity is truth" and "truth is subjectivity." Truth, Kierkegaard claimed, can never be a relegated to merely the assertaining and implementation of certain facts and principles. Facts are important initially, but also important, is the mode of how an individual relates himself to said facts and fundamentally established actualities. Ethically, the conclusion can be drawn that one's actions in regard to objective truths (subjectivity) supersedes the degree of validity in the actual objective truths themselves.

As well as discussing Kierkegaard's precepts on truth and subjectivity, author Evans exposes the philosopher's attitudes and theories on indirect communication in which he allocates three 'stages' or 'spheres' of human life as a developmental existence. With regard to faith, and in particular Kierkegaard's own deeply conflicted views on Christianity, Evans showcases how his 'teleological suspension of the ethical' from his treatise "On Fear And Trembling" in a simple, easily understood format. Also, the book contrasts him to famous thinkers both past and present, describing him as a uniquely brilliant intellctual who offers intriguing answers to complex philosophical questions. (198.9 EVANS)