By Susan Buck Morss 2005

Walter Benjamin: Revolutionary Writer

By Susan Buck-Morss (2005)

Abstract

This article delves into the life and work of Walter Benjamin, a prolific German-Jewish philosopher and cultural critic. Benjamin's legacy continues to fascinate and inspire scholars today, particularly in the field of critical theory. His writings on the impact of mass media, the decline of the aura in the age of mechanical reproduction, and the revolutionary potential of art continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.

Susan Buck-Morss's article analyzes Benjamin's multifaceted work through the lens of his political engagement. She argues that Benjamin's revolutionary spirit emerged from his profound understanding of the social and economic transformations of the early 20th century. Through his writings, Benjamin not only documented these changes but also sought to envision alternative possibilities for society.

Buck-Morss meticulously traces Benjamin's intellectual journey from his early Marxist sympathies to his later embrace of messianic thought. She argues that Benjamin's commitment to revolution was rooted in his belief in the redemptive power of art and culture. Benjamin saw art as a means to challenge existing norms, subvert oppressive structures, and create new forms of resistance.