Specter and Spirit: Ernst Bloch, Jacques Derrida, and the Work of Utopia

Abstract

In this paper I contend that both Ernst Bloch's theory of Utopia and Jacques Derrida's interpretation of the messianic promise of Marxism contain an underappreciated emphasis on the concept of work that can act as a basis for a novel synthesis of the two perspectives. When both theories are interpreted through this lens, they may be seen as representing two “moments” of a flexible Utopian “work” that closely resembles Marx's understanding of unalienated labor. Such a synthesis would be practiced as the alternation of Derrida's negative and Bloch's positive “Utopian work” with individuals engaging in the diverse, developmental, and collective production of Utopian visions of the best society. This process closely mirrors the creative, artisan-like work that Marx envisioned as flourishing after the eradication of the division of labor. When individuals practice it, they may gain an appreciation for this fundamental Marxist value even while existing in alienated, capitalist society.