Alienation and the lure of solidarity

Abstract

In this paper the complex problem of alienation is delineated briefly so that the remedies that have been proposed for its amelioration can be considered as they affect the existence of the individual within society. Solidarity — in various degrees of totality —has been put forward as the only proper remedy for alienation and the thought of the seminal thinkers of modern times — Rousseau, Hegel, and Marx — on the subject is examined in some detail. The differences between Marx's thought on the subject and that of the other two advocates of solidarity are highlighted and is explained. The notions of the modern thinkers are contrasted with the classical view of Plato and the Christian view of St. Augustine; these two last‐named thinkers are taken as representative of ancient thought on the subject. In particular their belief that man must be alienated from something in order to seek for that from which he is estranged, is treated as a proper part of the human condition. The modern, existentialist, attack on the idea of solidarity also is examined through the thought of Kierkegaard, who is taken to be the model representative of the existentialist attack on Hegelian solidarity and idealism. A fundamental basis for individuality as it concerns alienation is then proposed as a possible remedy.