Heidegger: Thinking the Unthinkable
Heidegger: Thinking the Unthinkable explores the life and philosophy of Martin Heidegger, one of the most influential and controversial thinkers of the 20th century. It traces Heidegger’s journey from his humble beginnings in rural Germany to his rise as a prominent philosopher and his subsequent affiliation with the Nazi regime.
The film provides insight into Heidegger’s early years, including his Catholic upbringing and his initial desire to become a priest. It details his transition to philosophy and his development of groundbreaking ideas, particularly those presented in his seminal work “Being and Time.” It highlights how Heidegger’s philosophy challenged traditional notions of human existence and consciousness, revolutionizing the field of phenomenology.
The documentary addresses Heidegger’s controversial alignment with the Nazi Party in 1933 when he became the rector of Freiburg University. It explores the complex reasons behind his political choices, including his rural background, cultural anti-Semitism, and belief in the potential for philosophical guidance of the Nazi movement. It also discusses the consequences of Heidegger’s actions, including his denunciation of colleagues and his treatment of his former mentor, Edmund Husserl.
The film concludes by examining Heidegger’s post-war life, his lack of public apology for his Nazi involvement, and the ongoing debate about how to reconcile his philosophical contributions with his political actions. It presents various perspectives on Heidegger’s legacy, highlighting the tension between his undeniable influence on modern philosophy and the moral questions raised by his personal conduct.