What Need, What Metaphysics?

Abstract

In this article, Italian philosopher and politician Gianni Vattimo (born 1936) problematizes the concept of “the end of metaphysics,” which was announced in the 20th century. In Vattimo’s opinion, the early 21st century sees a return of metaphysics. This points to a certain human need. Starting from two classic narratives – Friedrich Nietzsche’s postulation of the death of God, and Martin Heidegger’s critique of metaphysics – Vattimo proposes two alternatives: a «metaphysics of the authorized» and the «metaphysics of the downtrodden». Although the former has discredited itself, the latter hasn’t. It may be this latter metaphysics that answers the profound human need without offering totalitarian forms of control, oppression, or certainty in the existence of a single truth for all.