Good introduction. I have a feeling that I might delve deeper in the future. Nonetheless, I became through this book. Just as post-structuralists say, the text doesn’t just inform; it constitutes and changes your angles of approach.
I concur and recognize that humanity is shaped by systems over time. Much like inscribing names in sand that will eventually fade with the passage of time. This implies that we do not possess a fixed identity. Each component fulfills its purpose, generating significance through our actions. While I do not revere post-structuralism, I perceive it as a valuable toolkit. They assert that we lack free will, which bears resemblance to Determinism, yet I remain skeptical of that notion. I genuinely believe in the concepts of flame, daimonic drive/Telos, and calling - something that pulls you forward despite chaos, among others. Therefore, it revolves around the field and our respective roles, both human and non-human. This perspective also resonates with my daily life.
Yes, everything is shifting, contingent, relational—but the daimon is what rides the current and knows its direction. I know both Marxism and post-structuralism/postmodernism challenge the liberal ideal of a sovereign, autonomous individual. However, rather than merely functioning as a node, do not belittle or undervalue the power of humanity, or human forces. The absence of visibility does not equate to non-existence. It is essential to give expression to the Other, to the sublime, remember? But indeed, we must not accept the concept of individuality without question or naivety. I understand the argument. So we must go beyond post-structuralism, beyond deconstruct meaning; we must architect it. Like alchemy, Solve et Coagula.