2004
Volume 113 Number 4
  • ISSN: 0002-5275
  • E-ISSN: 2352-1244

Abstract

Abstract

The paper discusses Murdoch’s view on philosophy and literature. It poses two questions. The first question is how Murdoch distinguishes between these two disciplines. Murdoch defends a separation of the two, whereas in fact she crosses borders. Moreover, Murdoch holds that both philosophy and literature are seeking truth. Therefore, I argue, for Murdoch, philosophy and literature are similar from a moral philosophical standpoint. The second question is whether literary and philosophical reflections reach their limits when it comes to describing ultimate moral matters? Here, Murdoch’s concept of textuality is central. I explain Murdoch’s philosophical concept of text by analysing her thoughts on the ban on writing as shown in the novel and in philosophical essays, in particular . Next, referring to Murdoch’s objections to Derrida’s theory of text, I argue that Murdoch’s concept of text is not strong enough to protect her view from moralism. I suggest that perhaps the moralism can be overcome if further analysis of Murdoch’s work would disclose the role of an alternative, expressionist concept of text.

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