Marx

<p>If we are to understand <i>Marx</i>'s thought argues French philosopher Michel Henry we must cast aside <i>Marx</i>ism. In his original and richly detailed study of <i>Marx</i>'s philosophy Henry emphasizes the importance of approaching <i>Marx</i>'s writings directly rather than through the intermediary of subsequent interpretations which often have been politically motivated. In contrast to the usual depiction of <i>Marx</i>ian thought as an economically oriented analysis of social reality Henry contends that in <i>Marx</i>'s theory philosophy is primary. Therefore <i>Marx</i>'s writings must properly be viewed--and judged--within the context of the modern philosophical tradition. <i>Marx</i>'s basic concern Henry demonstrates is with the nature of the human being the real conditions of human individuality. Central to Henry's reading of <i>Marx</i> and elaborated here with unprecedented thoroughness is the theory of praxis a conception of the individual not as a thinking being in the Cartesian tradition but as a laboring being a producer and consumer situated in a concrete social world. This novel and provocative contribution to the current debate about the nature and meaning of <i>Marx</i>'s thought is essential for students of philosophy <i>Marx</i>ism and political theory. Kathleen McLaughlin's excellent translation of Henry's abridgement of his two-volume work preserves the power and freshness of the French original.</p>