SEIN ALS ALLEGORIE. EIN KONTAKT ZWISCHEN PARMENIDES UND BADIOU

Abstract

The following considerations develop two basic assumptions. A sophisticated concept of allegory, laid out in the theological-exegetical tradition, may also serve as a contemprorary hermeneutical tool. This can, secondly, be exemplified by putting together Parmenides’ „Being“ with its interpretation according to Alain Badiou. The proposal is developed in five sections. (1) A (purposively selective) sketch recalls that allegories connect inhomogeneous dimensions of meaning across cognitive divides. The apparatus employed for this purpose is then employed to (2) examine the literal composition of Parmenides' central formula and to (3) indicate how it might be interpreted according to present day parlance. This exposition is followed by (4) an exploration of the counter-strategy Badiou develops vis à vis Parmenidean ontology and finally (5) by an indication of the allegorical function of Badiou's being.