Abstract

Reconsidering Difference is a short book, and in 208 pages May sets out an ambitious agenda. He attempts to explain the thought of four major figures, to show where that thought goes wrong, and in each case to offer an alternative perspective. The air of futility surrounding such an agenda is alleviated somewhat by the ways each of these goals is delimited. First, the outlines of Nancy, Derrida, Levinas, and Deleuze focus specifically on their understanding of the concept of difference and the criticisms are directed at the role this concept plays in their work. On the positive side, no more than a sketch of an alternative theory is promised and, since it grows out of the critique of each chapter, this is really a single account with four dimensions.