Heidegger's 'Being and Time': A Reader's Guide

Detailed Summary of the Book

'Heidegger's 'Being and Time': A Reader's Guide' offers readers a comprehensive overview of Heidegger's project in 'Being and Time'. The book begins by situating Heidegger within the broader context of German philosophy, highlighting his influences from predecessors such as Kant, Aristotle, and Husserl. From there, the guide breaks down the key concepts of 'Being and Time', including Dasein, Being-in-the-world, and temporality.

The book carefully deciphers Heidegger's dense and sometimes elusive language, providing clarity on his innovative approach to ontology and the question of Being. Each chapter in the guide corresponds to sections of 'Being and Time', ensuring a linear and methodical approach to unpacking Heidegger's arguments. The book also delves into the existential implications of Heidegger's philosophy, exploring how his ideas challenge conventional understandings of existence, time, and self.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding of Heidegger's novel approach to ontology and the significance of the fundamental question of Being.
• Insight into Heidegger's concept of Dasein and what it means to exist authentically.
• An exploration of the relationship between Being and time, and how temporality shapes existence.
• Appreciation of Heidegger’s influence on existentialism, hermeneutics, and postmodern philosophy.

Famous Quotes from the Book

"To be means to be a being whose Being is an issue for it."

"Being-in-the-world is the formal existential expression of the Being of Dasein."

"Time is not a thing, thus nothing which is, and yet it remains constant in its passing away without being something temporal like the beings in time."

Why This Book Matters

'Heidegger's 'Being and Time': A Reader's Guide' serves as an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to comprehend one of the most challenging and impactful works of philosophy in the last century. Heidegger's exploration of Being not only reshaped philosophical discourse but also influenced a wide array of disciplines, including theology, psychology, literature, and the arts. Understanding 'Being and Time' is crucial for grasping the evolution of existential and hermeneutical thinking.

This guide demystifies Heidegger’s dense prose and abstruse concepts, making his philosophies accessible to contemporary readers. By providing context and interpretation, the book equips readers to engage critically with 'Being and Time' and apply its insights to both philosophical inquiry and the broader questions of human existence.