978-94-90322-05-2

Paul Stoute

420

15.5 x 24

Paperback

Only available in Dutch

For more information see also: and

Date of release: October 2009 [1st edition], January 2010 [2nd edition]

Update: May 2011: 2nd edition sold out. 

?SOLD OUT

Henk Oosterling (b. Rotterdam, 1952) is Associate Professor in Philosophy at Erasmus University Rotterdam. His main fields of expertise are cultural and dialectic philosophy, as well as aestethics. He resided in Japan for some time to practice martial arts, and became Dutch Kendo champion in 1983. The Japanese teachings stimulated him to ask philosophical questions such as: what is my relation to fellow human beings, and what is my position towards society? As a philosopher, he prefers an assertive, provocative approach. If necessary, he is prepared to shock in the hope that others show an equally open attitude and willingness to experiment.

Oosterling plays an important role in the society of Rotterdam, he initiated many cultural and societal activities. For the Rotterdam city council, he functions as strategic consultant for urban innovation projects. A recent initiative called 'SkillCity' consist of a research model for urban revitalisation and renovation, focused on the specific social-cultural and socio-economic situation of Rotterdam.

His book is related to this project entitled Woorden als Daden (Words as Acts), a political-philosophical reflection on the essence of a community. It discusses the practice of accepting and handing out responsibility in a profoundly individualist world, and comprises a rich source of inspiration for policy makers, CEO's and professionals.

Dr. Henk Oosterling studied philosophy, linguistics and Japanese language at the University of Leiden and Erasmus University Rotterdam and now teaches dialectical method, contemporary French philosophy and aesthetics. As coordinator of the Center for Philosophy & Arts (CFK) he initiated and supervises the research program 'Intermediality. On the borders between philosophy, arts and politics'. He is chief-editor of the CFK series CFKj and InterAkta. He was member of the executive board of the International Association for Philosophy and Literature (IAPL) (2001-2005) and now chairs the Dutch Aesthetics Federation (DAF).