Beyond Concept: Derrida and Levinas on Metaphor

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to examine Levinas’s and Derrida’s concept of metaphor. The paper compares their account on metaphor that shows well their position toward religion. Both authors agree that metaphor is connected to the realm of “beyond concept” but Levinas identifies the metaphor, in Carnets de Captiv-ité , with monotheistic divinity. Derrida does not. The conclusion is that Derrida cannot be considered negative theologian nor religious thinker.