This essay demonstrates that the concept of "worldlessness," as defined by Hannah Arendt, delineates some of the most basic problems of modern existence. "Worldlessness" is the condition of one who shares no things, institutions, or systems of meaning with others. Worldlessness has been experienced in all periods of western history, but has become a pervasive condition of modern existence in general. / The following topics are examined. First, "worldly existence," as the norm in terms of which Hannah Arendt defines "worldlessness," is explained. Second, Hannah Arendt's experiences as a German Jew, and her reflections on Jewish history, are examined as the foundation of her understanding of worldlessness. Third, pre-modern experiences of worldlessness, rooted in the philosophic disinterest in, and the Christian denial of, the world are considered. Fourth, the renunciation of common sense, which resulted from the discoveries of modern science, and the consequent substitution of the mind for the world as the source and standard of truth, are examined as one dimension of modern worldlessness. Fifth, the rise of modern capitalism, with its assault on the worldly stability of all persons and things, and its subordination of public concerns to private interests, are discussed as further sources of modern worldlessness. Finally, Arendt's analysis of totalitarianism, as it expresses worldlessness, is examined. / Two general criticisms are examined in relation to these topics. First, Arendt has been accused by social scientists of manipulating historical data and facts to fit her overall theories. Second, her insistence on establishing strict distinctions between human activities and spheres of existence has been criticized by others. These criticisms are mitigated somewhat if one understands Arendt's writings chiefly as philosophical reflections on the human significance of historical events. Given this general concern, Arendt's discussion of worldlessness points to some of the most fundamental problems of the modern age, including the decline of politics, the dissolution of traditional values and beliefs, and the emergence of "surplus people." / Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 43-04, Section: A, page: 1177. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--The Florida State University, 1982.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:fsu.edu/oai:fsu.digital.flvc.org:fsu_74815 |
| Contributors | YOUNG, JON MORGAN., Florida State University |
| Source Sets | Florida State University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Text |
| Format | 314 p. |
| Rights | On campus use only. |
| Relation | Dissertation Abstracts International |
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