On the Side of Weakness: The Question of Weak Force in Contemporary Postmetaphysical Philosophy

Abstract

The article examines the ways in which weak force is thematized in modern post-metaphysical philosophy and attempts to positively explicate its meaning. The novelty lies in its attempt to define human nature not from the perspective of strength, which always presupposes an energetic, powerful attitude towards essence, but from the horizon of weakness. This ontological perspective allows human to discover meanings not included in present existence, as weakness always points to difference, potential, and possible existence. Ontologically weak force is understood as the immanent horizon of being, which points to the incomplete character of the current order and opens up possibilities for its new organisation. Therefore, the weak force opposes essentialism, cancels the logic of substance and points to the overcoming character of being. From an existential and anthropological perspective, weakness reveals humanity's infirmity as the potential-not, the inability to do something, which in turn reveals the very ability to act. Finally, weakness, which implies criticism of the cultural canon, discovery of meanings not included in the dominant discourse, and points to a possible time, allows individuals to obtain a critical, reflexive position in relation to historical experience and the actual challenges of modernity. To realize this intention, the author turns to the concept of history and messianic time in the works of W. Benjamin, the concept of différance by J. Derrida, and the ontology of potential by G. Agamben.