A hermeneutical interpretation of Albert Camus' idea of revolt

Date of Publication

2008

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts Major in Philosophy

Subject Categories

Philosophy

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

Philosophy

Thesis Adviser

Ernest Gier M. Villacorta

Defense Panel Member

Victor Gojocco
Jeremiah Joven Joaquin
Dennis D. G.

Abstract/Summary

This thesis is about the application of Camus' philosophy as a hermeneutic in dealing with meaningful dialogue in the face of meaningless Absurdity in other words, a hermeneutical interpretation of Camus' idea of revolt. It aims at how our revolts-our interpretations of the Absurd-carry with them weight that can influence human beings to justify a trespassing of boundaries that leads not only to philosophical suicide but also to crime, and how this can be avoided and meaningful dialogue achieved through a responsible respect for lines that cannot be breached.

The reason for such a study and its relevance are many, because for the most part revolt is a fact of life that has deep philosophical implications. For when push comes to shove, lines will be crossed, and it is here that a man becomes a rebel and ultimately walks a tightrope wherein he tries to balance his own need with the welfare of others. The problem then becomes clear: how should we rebel against the Absurd? Where do we find justification for our rebellions? How do we maintain the spirit of compromise and mediation that is so essential for human dialogue in Camus' revolt schema? Keeping true with the idea that Camus' idea of revolt, can be used to foster a meaninful dialogue, the approach best suited to be used by this thesis in solving the problem is that of Gadamerian hermeneutics framework.

The realization that have been gained from making this thesis have been profound the researcher has become more aware of how delicate the issue of revolt really is, and on how suspension of morality -- the main cause of failed dialogues between rebels -- can lead to problems in justifying revolt from mass murder. It has also given the researcher new insight into the workings of human beings, particularly that of revolutionaries, do they aspire to become world leaders, or leaders who want to rule the world? Are they men of god, or men who kill in god's name? For the researcher, these questions have highlighted just how influential revolt has been in human life.

The conclusions that have been arrived at from the creation of this thesis are telling-the thesis has concluded that Camus' philosophy as a hermeneutic allows for meaningful dialogue because it understands the interdependence of people with each other, it shuns grand ideology and puts a constant vigil on the present, and an emphasis on tempered compassion, responsibility, moderation, and an awareness of one's excessiveness.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Print

Accession Number

TU14349

Shelf Location

Archives, The Learning Commons, 12F, Henry Sy Sr. Hall

Physical Description

53 leaves ; 28 cm.

Keywords

Absurd (Philosophy); Hermeneutics; Camus; Albert

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