The Reason of Terror

Philosophical Responses to Terrorism

Edited by K. Crimmins Edited by H. De Vriese

Book cover: The Reason of Terror

Extent: 299 pages

Publisher: Peeters Publishers

Subjects: Philosophy, Social Sciences 

Language: English

Paperback (Published)

(December 2006)

ISBN: 9789042918238

Price: $38.00

In stock

The Reason of Terror pursues the need for philosophical responses attuned to the complexity of terrorism. Driven by the conviction that terrorism is a worthy topic for philosophical reflection, the volume presents careful conceptual analyses of terrorism while demonstrating that the relation between reason and terrorism is deeply rooted in the history of philosophy. In a series of historical essays that begins with Lucretius’ reflections on terror, includes Machiavelli and Hegel’s political analyses and continues through Arendt’s investigation of terror and ideology, the authors counter a prevalent tendency to think that terrorism is irrational and hence beyond the pale of philosophical reflection. The collection continues by investigating contemporary terrorism’s impact upon subjectivity, communication and rhetoric, and the practice of philosophy. Taken as a whole, the essays demonstrate not only philosophy’s ability to think terrorism, but also terrorism’s impact on philosophy.

  • Edited by K. Crimmins
  • Edited by H. De Vriese