The work examines the intersection of ethics and politics within the context of Latin American literary criticism and theory, particularly in light of the ethical turn that has gained prominence in recent decades. It critiques the moralization of politics and the implications of an ethical focus in critical discourse, questioning whether this shift has led to a dilution of political engagement and revolutionary ideals. The text references Borges to illustrate the potential for an "ethics of the reader" that transcends superficial stylistic concerns, advocating for a deeper engagement with the ethical dimensions of literature. Critics like Sylvia Molloy and Idelber Avelar are discussed for their contributions to the discourse on ethics in interpretation, emphasizing the need for honesty and self-awareness in literary criticism. However, the work also highlights the limitations of these approaches, suggesting that they may inadvertently reinforce a division between ethics and politics. The author argues that contemporary ethical frameworks, particularly those influenced by post-Heideggerian and post-Levinasian thought, often prioritize finitude and the Other, potentially sidelining the transformative potential of political action. The text contrasts these frameworks with the ideas of Alain Badiou, who posits that ethics should not overshadow politics, emphasizing the importance of fidelity to events that can catalyze change. The work critiques the conflation of ethics and politics, suggesting that this trend risks undermining the specificity of ethical experiences and the potential for genuine political transformation. It raises concerns about the historical context of the ethical turn, advocating for a critical genealogy that maps the evolution of ethical theories within specific political situations. The author also engages with the work of Enrique Dussel, who attempts to reconcile an ethics of the Other with a political framework rooted in liberation theology. However, the text argues that Dussel's approach may inadvertently reinforce the victimization narrative, complicating the relationship between ethics and politics. Ultimately, the work calls for a reevaluation of the ethical turn, questioning whether the current emphasis on ethics may necessitate a liberation from ethics itself. It posits that the ethical focus, while well-intentioned, may hinder the pursuit of radical political change and the realization of justice, suggesting that a return to a more politically engaged discourse may be necessary for genuine liberation.
By Bruno Bosteels · First published 2012 · Genre: Philosophy, Literary Criticism, Political Theory · 4 chapters