This paper deals with the phenomenon of circumcision and how Freud and Derrida, respectively, viewed this rite. Freud viewed it quite negatively, while Derrida, on the other hand, viewed it in a...Show moreThis paper deals with the phenomenon of circumcision and how Freud and Derrida, respectively, viewed this rite. Freud viewed it quite negatively, while Derrida, on the other hand, viewed it in a much more positive way. Based on a number of primary and secondary sources, we will argue in favor of Derrida’s approach to circumcision, and thus, we will argue against Freud. This is not to say that we reject Freud. Rather, we acknowledge the immense and ongoing influence of the genius of Freud. Yet, we amend his views on circumcision, using Derrida, who, himself, was greatly inspired by Freud. Ultimately, we will argue that Freud’s (somewhat Hegelian) view on circumcision is too rigid. As we will see below, Derrida’s dynamic approach is much more useful in contemporary philosophical debate.Show less
