Harry Frankfurt vs. Slavoj Žižek

Attribute	Harry Frankfurt	Slavoj Žižek
Philosopher	Yes	Yes
Focus on Free Will	Yes	No
Author	"On Bullshit"	"The Sublime Object of Ideology"
Political Views	Liberal	Marxist

Background

Harry Frankfurt and Slavoj Žižek are two prominent philosophers known for their unique perspectives on various philosophical topics. Frankfurt, an American philosopher, is best known for his work on free will and moral responsibility. On the other hand, Slavoj Žižek, a Slovenian philosopher, is known for his critical theory and psychoanalytic approach to philosophy.

Philosophical Approach

Frankfurt's philosophical approach is characterized by his focus on the concept of free will and moral responsibility. He argues that individuals have the ability to make choices and act freely, even if those choices are determined by external factors. Frankfurt's work often delves into the complexities of human decision-making and the implications of free will on moral responsibility.

Žižek, on the other hand, takes a more critical and psychoanalytic approach to philosophy. He draws heavily from the works of Freud and Lacan to analyze cultural and political phenomena. Žižek's philosophy is known for its provocative and controversial nature, as he challenges traditional beliefs and ideologies through his unique perspective.

Writing Style

Frankfurt's writing style is clear, concise, and analytical. He presents his arguments in a logical and systematic manner, making his work accessible to a wide audience. Frankfurt's writing is often praised for its clarity and precision, as he carefully constructs his arguments to support his philosophical claims.

Žižek, on the other hand, is known for his dense and complex writing style. His work is filled with references to various philosophical and cultural texts, making it challenging for some readers to follow. Despite this, Žižek's writing is engaging and thought-provoking, as he pushes readers to question their assumptions and beliefs.

Key Contributions

Frankfurt's key contribution to philosophy lies in his exploration of free will and moral responsibility. His influential essay "On Bullshit" has sparked debates on the nature of truth and deception in contemporary society. Frankfurt's work continues to be studied and discussed in philosophical circles around the world.

Žižek's key contributions to philosophy include his analysis of ideology and his critique of capitalism. His work on cultural theory and psychoanalysis has influenced a wide range of disciplines, from political science to film studies. Žižek's provocative ideas have sparked controversy and debate, making him a polarizing figure in the world of philosophy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Harry Frankfurt and Slavoj Žižek are two influential philosophers with distinct approaches to philosophy. While Frankfurt focuses on free will and moral responsibility with a clear and analytical writing style, Žižek takes a critical and psychoanalytic approach with a dense and complex writing style. Both philosophers have made significant contributions to the field of philosophy and continue to influence contemporary thought.