logocentrism
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Logocentrism is a philosophy that posits all thought is based on an external, authoritative reference point. It specifically privileges speech over writing, viewing speech as a more direct form of communication that is closer to an originating source.1
In literary criticism, deconstruction, heavily influenced by philosopher Jacques Derrida, challenges fundamental distinctions in Western thought by closely examining the language and logic within texts. Deconstruction analyzes hierarchical binary oppositions (like speech/writing, nature/culture) to reveal tensions and contradictions, showing these oppositions are constructions of the text rather than inherent truths. This approach questions the idea of a realm of truth existing independently of language, a concept central to logocentrism.2
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deconstructionDeconstruction in philosophy…a manifestation of the “logocentrism” of Western culture—i.e., the general assumption that there is a realm of “truth” existing prior to and independent of its representation by linguistic signs. Logocentrism encourages us to treat linguistic signs as distinct from and inessential to the phenomena they represent, rather than as…
Read More…a manifestation of the “logocentrism” of Western culture—i.e., the general assumption that there is a realm of “truth” existing prior to and independent of its representation by linguistic signs. Logocentrism encourages us to treat linguistic signs as distinct from and inessential to the phenomena they represent, rather than as…
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Western philosophyRecent trends…assumption, which he called “logocentrism,” that there is a realm of truth that exists prior to and independently of its representation by linguistic and other signs. Logocentrism in turn derives from the “metaphysics of presence,” or the tendency to conceive of fundamental philosophical concepts such as truth, reality, and…
Read More…assumption, which he called “logocentrism,” that there is a realm of truth that exists prior to and independently of its representation by linguistic and other signs. Logocentrism in turn derives from the “metaphysics of presence,” or the tendency to conceive of fundamental philosophical concepts such as truth, reality, and…
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