Theories of Alienation: new book by professor Christoph Henning

Alienation has a long history as a philosophical concept, for instance, it became known for playing a role in the theories of Karl Marx. Yet the concept has faded into the background in recent decades. And that while feelings of alienation are particularly common in our modern times, Henning says. 

Henning: "There are many people who do not feel at home in the world, in their bodies, in their immediate surroundings. Experiences of alienation show us what is really important in our lives: a self-determined life in connection with others and with the richness of the world around us, in which we ourselves become active and creative in a meaningful way. When we lack that, alienation is often the answer.’"

The book is part of Henning's research into perfectionism, the idea of human perfection and the greatest possible development of human abilities to achieve sustainable happiness. Christoph Henning: "‘It struck me that perfectionism also has a dark side: what happens if we don't achieve this goal? And what is the reason why we don't even try and settle for setbacks, despair, struggle and oppression? Alienation is an answer to both questions."

The book, intended for both students and researchers, offers an accessible overview of the history of thinking about alienation from Jean-Jacques Rousseau to Hartmut Rosa. In addition, Christoph Henning also covers new ideas in the book and extensively critiques alternative approaches. The book ties in with his new research on European critical theories, including humanism.

Christoph Henning is Professor of Philosophy and Humanism at the University of Humanistic Studies.

Theories of alienation. From Rousseau to the present, Christoph Henning, Routledge 2024.

Professor of Philosophy and Humanism Christoph Henning sheds light on the history of the concept of alienation in his new book 'Theories of alienation, from Rousseau to the present'.