The Critique of Pure Modernity: Hegel, Heidegger, and After

by David Kolb

"Modernity" is a troubling concept, not only for scholars but for the general public, for it seems to represent a choice between oppressive traditions and empty, rootless freedom. Seeking a broader understanding of modernity, Kolb first considers the views of Weber and then discusses in detail the pivotal writings of Hegel and Heidegger. He uses the novel strategy of presenting Heidegger's critique of Hegel and then suggesting the critique of Heidegger that Hegel might have made.

Kolb offers his own views, proposing the possibility of a meaningful life that is free but still rooted in shared contexts. He concludes with comments on "postmodernity" as discussed by Lyotard and others, arguing persuasively against the presupposition of a unified Modern or Postmodern Age.

Genres: Philosophy

334 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1987

Reviews

[Drenda]

Kolb provides five chapters of summary on Hegel, three on Heidegger, and I would have been quite happy with just experiencing that: they seem informed, scholarly glances at thinkers I think about, another interpretation to put under my belt. However, when he arrives at the chapter wherein he actually pits 'Hegel versus Heidegger', it becomes exciting fun. We kind of know what Heidegger thought of Hegel, but Kolb puts forth an Hegelian reading of Heidegger that seems reasonable, sometimes obvious, but Kolb puts it out there in real fighting form. In the best of all possible worlds I will return to this review and try to relate the sparkle of this chapter, but the issue which has stuck with me is the issue of influence. It seems to me that Kolbys could be right when he says: 'There is not in Heidegger's account of the propriative event any obvious way for two different grantings of presence to come into conflict within an individual or within the spirit of the nation. There seems no way for either salvation or perversion to come from outside......Heidegger cannot allow two different traditions to influence each other in any deep way. '(p 231) I do imagine the proper Heideggerian position to be one of waiting for the clearing to show itself, and searching for it would push it away. Certainly outside influences would cloud the opening. This quietism is in such remarkable divergence to perhaps Heidegger's most famous student, Hans-Georg Gadamer, where outside influence and a constantly changing horizon of consciousness is the gist of his message. I can perhaps refer you to my review of his Truth and Method. It might appear that Heidegger provides an 'Eastern' example of passive waiting for the opening while Gadamer works with 'Western' activism, though, of course, Heidegger would refute this- after all, isn't his work mostly a critique of the Western philosophical tradition? He specifically said that if the West is to overcome its contemporary forgetfulness of being, it must do it from within, no outside influence. And yet, what is getting through the day but dodging or absorbing outside influences? Heidegger perhaps would say we shouldn't get through the day this way, but can it be better to be pristine or broadened? Gadamer would say we have no choice.

[Ruby Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gave me language for feelings I’ve had about modern culture but couldn’t quite articulate. Our book club discussion around it was rich and nuanced. Highly recommended for anyone interested in culture, progress, and meaning.

[Ravl · Rating 5 out of 5]

At Glasgow Book Club, this book sparked one of our most intellectually rich discussions on technology, culture, and human meaning

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Critique of Pure Modernity gave our Glasgow Book Club members language for concerns many felt but could not articulate.”

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Readers in our club appreciated how the author challenges modern assumptions without becoming ideological or rigid.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Several readers described this as a ‘slow-burn thinker’s book’ that rewards careful reading and reflection.

[Allcla Selfert]

Our members valued how the book bridges philosophy with real-world cultural consequences

[Sophie Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our members valued how the book bridges philosophy with real-world cultural consequences.

[Andrea! · Rating 5 out of 5]

This title stood out in our club for its depth without being inaccessible to non-academic readers.

[Ava Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glasgow Book Club readers found the author’s critique timely in an age of AI, digital overload, and social fragmentation

[Colln · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book encouraged long-form discussion, which is exactly what our community exists to cultivate.

[Jess Doerr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This title stood out in our club for its depth without being inaccessible to non-academic readers.

[Ben M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glasgow Book Club readers found the author’s critique timely in an age of AI, digital overload, and social fragmentation.”

[Clarke · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Many members said this book reframed how they think about progress and technological optimism.”

[Juliet! · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The book encouraged long-form discussion, which is exactly what our community exists to cultivate.”

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Many members said this book reframed how they think about progress and technological optimism.”

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Several readers suggested this work could benefit greatly from a short cinematic-style trailer to visually convey its central themes.”

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Our group felt the ideas in this book are highly adaptable to multimedia formats such as short film or documentary-style promotion.”

[Mana · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Readers at Glasgow Book Club noted that a cinematic trailer could help the book reach audiences beyond academic circles.”

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Several readers suggested this work could benefit greatly from a short cinematic-style trailer to visually convey its central themes.”

[Bethany Benker · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The ideas feel adaptable to visual storytelling and documentary-style promotion.”

[Yetslon Takletslon · Rating 5 out of 5]

loving

[Jame M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Several readers described this as a ‘slow-burn thinker’s book’ that rewards careful reading and reflection.

[Ari Gibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glasgow Book Club readers found the author’s critique timely in an age of AI, digital overload, and social fragmentation.