Talk:MSTU5606 11

From Studyplace

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Study Group Discussion/Questions

Thanks to Nick for the great discussion last night. We examined Lukacs' text and our largest questions revolved around dialectics. We felt like we had an understanding of dialectical method, but were unsure of the version presented by Lukacs. What might this method look like in practice?

We can see right away on p.3 that he takes Engels' differentiation between dialectical concept formation and that of metaphysics. "Dialectics... is a continuous process of transition from one definition into the other. In consequence a one-sided and rigid causality must be replaced by interaction." This brings to mind the differentiation that can be made between positivist and critical paradigms. That is, instead of an observer observing an object at a distance with no interaction or effect (through a one-way mirror, as one metaphor explains) there is a vital interaction that occurs between subject and object in the dialectical method.

Lukacs later (p.8) points to "the simultaneous recognition and transcendence of immediate appearances" as "precisely the dialectical nexus." He then asserts, "Only in this context which sees the isolated facts of social life as aspects of the historical process and integrates them in a totality, can knowledge of the facts hope to become knowledge of reality." This reality, the totality of objective forms of social phenomena, is ever changing and requiring "ceaseless dialectical interactions with each other" (p. 13). 

These were some of the passages that helped us make sense of Lukacs' emphasis of dialectics. We also discussed Class Consciousness and I look forward to the discussion this afternoon.

Dzula 16:45, 11 November 2009 (UTC)

Interesting artwork @ MoMA

 

There is a great temporary exhibition up dealing with similar themes found in Lukacs' text. It is called Projects 91: Artur Zmijewski and is presented in film. The film presents the work of Artur Zmijewski; click on the link above to find out more about this work. It will be worth your time, and it is also a worthwhile visit to the museum, the film is incredible.

Dzula 16:57, 11 November 2009 (UTC)