들뢰즈와 과타리의 철학에서 앙드레 르루아구랑의 『손놀림과 말』의 역할

Abstract

André Leroi-Gourhan’s Gesture and Speech, which greatly influenced Deleuze and Guattari’s Capitalism and Schizophrenia series, explains the unique human characteristics by arguing that, in contrast with the common notions, the evolution of feet, not that of brain, plays an essential role in being humanity. Erect posture and upright walking were the starting points for the formation of Homo sapiens’ brain, and at the same time as the development of the brain, the paws were transformed into hands and snout into mouth. The liberated hands allowed to make tools and to use techniques, and the liberated face permitted to use the symbolism and enabled language. The evolution of the hands and face was biologically based on the development of the brain’s memory capacity. Furthermore, the ability to organize rhythm by using symbols made art and aesthetics possible. The influence of Leroi-Gourhan on the philosophy of Deleuze and Guattari can be summarized in four ways. First, human and nature are not the two opposing terms, but rather an inseparable unity. Second, humans should not be understood from the point of view of individuals but of the technical and social levels that determine individuals, and further of the layers of biological evolution and ecosystems. Third, humans are not beyond nature and are just a particular expression of nature. Fourth, the abstract nature of primitive art is a testament to the brain’s capacity to use symbols.