Euporia: On the Limits, Horizons and Possibilities of Critique (or: On Reconstruction)

Abstract

Purpose

Theoretical reconstruction for the sake of deeper and clearer understanding of an important theme in classical philosophy (aporia/euporia)

Methodology/approach

Logical critique (and reconstruction); aporetic and euporetic logic.

Findings

Using key texts by Plato and Aristotle on aporia and euporia, I attempt to show that Derrida’s, and more broadly deconstructive, readings are problematic and require careful and critical reconsideration.

Research limitations

A full account of aporia in the work of Derrida is beyond the scope of the paper – so too is a full account of aporia and euporia in the works of Plato and Aristotle.

Practical implications

The paper has important implications in terms of our reading and interpretation of important classical texts such as Aristotle’s Metaphysics.

Originality/value

The paper builds on important research by philosophers like Matthews and on the nature and role of aporia in classical philosophy, just as it extends the author’s own critique of deconstructive appropriations of aporia. It argues for the importance of reconstructing our understanding of aporetic and euporetic thinking in order to see it more clearly especially in its classical forms, contexts and frameworks.

Citation

Younis, R.A. (2016), " Euporia: On the Limits, Horizons and Possibilities of Critique (or: On Reconstruction)", Reconstructing Social Theory, History and Practice (Current Perspectives in Social Theory, Vol. 35), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 89-107. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0278-120420160000035003