In contrast to recent postmodern and deconstructionist readings, Mark A. Tietjen believes that the purpose behind Kierkegaard's writings is the moral and religious improvement of the reader. Tietjen defends Kierkegaard against claims that certain features of his works, such as pseudonymity, indirect communication, irony, and satire are self-deceived or deceitful. Kierkegaard, Communication, and Virtue reveals how they are directly related to the virtues or moral issues being discussed. In fact, Tietjen argues, the manner of presentation is a critical element of the philosophical message being conveyed. Reading broadly in Kierkegaard's writings, he develops a hermeneutics of trust that fully illustrates Kierkegaard's aim to evoke faith in his reader.

Authorship and communication of ethical and religious ideas

About the Author

Mark A. Tietjen is Associate Professor of Philosophy and Religion at the University of West Georgia.

Reviews

Mark A. Tietjen's book makes an important contribution towards clarifying a debatable issue, which is pivotal to the interpretation of Kierkegaard's writing, namely: how should one evaluate the diversity of voices and other literary devices characteristic of Kierkegaard's method of 'indirect communication'?

* Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews *



Book Information
ISBN 9780253008541
Author Mark A. Tietjen
Format Hardback
Page Count 176
Imprint Indiana University Press
Publisher Indiana University Press
Weight(grams) 408g