Date of Award
2020
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Humanities
First Advisor
Flakne, April
Area of Concentration
Philosophy
Abstract
In this thesis, I uncover the meaning of Strauss’s critique of modernity and discover the concept of esotericism along the way. I then discuss the possibility of “esoteric politics” and argue that as a concept, it is pertinent to politics today. I examine the assumptions that led Strauss to understand esotericism as a necessary practice. I then critique and invert these assumptions. Finally, I examine three different responses to Straussianism that appeared around the turn of the millennium, and discuss the political shortcomings of each.
Recommended Citation
Cope, Matthew, "Esoteric Politics: Leo Strauss and the Power of Secrets" (2020). Theses & ETDs. 5919.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/5919