Description: "All modern philosophy", according to Mark C. Taylor, "is a footnote to Hegel". This endless footnote begins with Kierkegaard's critique of Hegel and extends through every major philosophical movement in the 20th century. Indeed, Hegel and Kierkegaard defines the poles between which all significant modern and post-modern and theology have been suspended. While theology in the recent decades has been characterized by a shift from the Kierkegaardianism of neo-orthodoxy to the Hegelianism of the death of God theology, philosophy has moved from the Hegelianism implicit in phenomenology and structuralism to a version of deconstruction and post-structuralism that is increasingly Kierkegaardian. In the years since its initial publication, the prescience of Taylor's classic study of Hegel and Kierkegaard has become increasingly evident. By establishing a creative dialogue between Hegel and Kierkegaard, Journeys to Selfhood both charts the historical background of philosophy in this century and identifies important issues that still merit serious discussion. At a time when critical debate has reached an impasse, Taylor's reconsideration of Hegel and Kierkegaard suggests new possibilities for constructive reflection. "As we move in the 21st century", Taylor concludes, "we must not only learn to think differently but must also rethink systems and structures that allow for integration and reconciliation without exclusion or repression. Though his answers that allow for integration and reconciliation without exclusion or repression. Though his answers are not completely adequate, as we take up these critical questions, Hegel once again emerges as a 'trustworthy guide.'" If, as Derrida insists, "wewill never be finished with the reading and rereading of Hegel", then it is time to reread Journeys to Selfhood as if for the first time".

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