Humanism and Anti-humanism: a Judgement on “Modernity”

This chapter deals with the historical-philosophical debate opposing humanism and anti-humanism within a larger context of controversies over modernity. It takes into consideration the positions of authors such as Sartre, Heidegger, Garin, and Grassi. It highlights the tension between the concept of man as a free and historical being, characteristic of Renaissance humanism, and the anti-humanist critique that rejects a metaphysical essence of humanity. Heidegger problematizes the very concept of humanism, while Grassi and Garin defend its historical and philosophical value, emphasizing the centrality of poetic language. This chapter also considers the rela- tionship between humanism and Marxism, showing how the debate has influenced 20th-century philosophy. This chapter aims at a critical reassessment of humanism.