The role of the H. Arendt’s action theory terms in the «capable man» concept by P. Ricoeur

Philosophy

Abstract

The paper analyzes the application of the concepts of H. Arendt’s theory of action in the hermeneutic phenomenology of P. Ricoeur. The study examines the influence exerted on Ricoeur’s concept of «capable man» such categories of Arendt’s philosophy as «plurality» and «common being with each-other». This article considers the continuity of Arendt’s ideas of political philosophy in Ricoeur’s ethics. It proposes the historical and philosophical reconstruction of values of Ricoeur’s unilateral dialogue with the Arendt’s theory of action. The article consists of three meaning parts. It begins with a description of the main aspects of the concept of «capable man» as one of the main theories of Ricoeur”s hermeneutic phenomenology. Then, analysis of the key concepts, which describe the essential characteristics of the action in Arendt’s philosophy is given; the narrative approach to her theory is proposed. The third step of article becomes disclosure meaning of the categories of Arendt’s political philosophy in Ricoeur’s concept of ethical-moral person, who implements the image of the «capable man». The study shows that Ricoeur applies Arendt’s terms of plurality and compatibility to describe the ethics of public relations. By asking the question of «person of responsibility», the French philosopher asks not only about the ethical and moral individual life but also— about the problem of the definition of man as a political being. What basis does Ricoeur take to turn the phenomenon of institute to the subject of ethics and what roles do play the concepts of Arendt’s theory of action in this transformation? How does Ricoeur make a transition from ethics to politics and what is the function of Arendt’s political philosophy in this transition? These are some of the fundamental questions, the answers to which are stated in this article.