Gelassenheit gegenüber dem Tod

<p>Life is finite and the fear of the end is human. Not suppressing this human fear, but accepting it, can lead to the serenity in the face of death that is the subject of a philosophical dialogue between the two authors in this book. They discuss prominent philosophical positions that are suitable for facing death calmly. The basis is formed by Socratic ‘not knowing’, Epicurus' “peace of mind” and the hope of an afterlife. Via Feuerbach's criticism of Kant's postulate of the ‘immortality of the soul’, the discussion moves on to Heidegger's ‘running ahead’ towards death and Améry's ‘laying hands on oneself’. Overall, serenity in the face of death means making peace with the finiteness of all life.</p>