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Document Details : Title: Simmel on the Creative Life and the Possibility of Dying Author(s): ALMOG, Meirav Journal: Etudes phénoménologiques - Phenomenological Studies Volume: 10 Date: 2026 Pages: 215-240 DOI: 10.2143/EPH.10.0.3295013 Abstract : The paper delves into Georg Simmel’s late writings to examine his philosophy of life. It aims to position Simmel as a significant figure within the discourse of Continental Lebensphilsophie, demonstrating his engagement with 19th century aesthetic life-philosophies, while also influencing 20th century existential and phenomenological thought. The study dissects Simmel’s perspective on the structure of life, elucidating the inherent and perpetual struggle within the infrastructure of life in light of the connection Simmel portrays between: ‘creative existence’, ‘style’, ‘timelessness’, and the possibility of dying. The paper exposes the radicality of Simmel’s thinking in this regard, and the manner in which this view affects the early Heideggerian thought of authenticity, existence and death. It further explores the interplay between life, creative existence, and style, unraveling the complexities and tensions that emerge within Simmel’s viewpoint. Finally, an alternative concept of style is proposed to adequately address these challenges. |
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