Jacques Derrida
Algerian-French philosopher who founded deconstruction, a method of reading that exposes the hidden contradictions and assumptions in texts. Of Grammatology and Writing and Difference inaugurated a new era in literary theory and continental philosophy. His work transformed the humanities but was bitterly contested.
Works
- Of GrammatologyDeconstruction of Western metaphysics and critique of presence-based thought
- Writing and DifferenceEssays on deconstruction, literature, and philosophy
- Speech and PhenomenaCritique of phenomenology and voice-centered philosophy
- DisseminationAnalysis of writing, difference, and textual dissemination
- Margins of PhilosophyEssays on key philosophical concepts and margins of philosophical inquiry
- Specters of MarxMeditation on Marx and communism through deconstructive philosophy
- The Gift of DeathAnalysis of obligation, sacrifice, and the logic of the gift