Ellis's
Existential Ontology of Eros
Gary Backhaus, Morgan
State University
Ralph Ellis's book Eros in
a Narcissistic Culture: An Analysis Anchored in the Life World, which
is centered primarily in existential phenomenology, serves as a bridge to
cultural and sociopolitical criticism. Ellis moves effortlessly between
existential ontology and sociopolitical critique. I would first like to
draw attention to sociopolitical critique, as it is less pronounced than
the detailed phenomenological description of the phases of the erotic relationship.
It should be noted, however, that Ellis's main purpose is accomplished through
describing the awakening and adventure phases of the erotic relationship,
the role of sexuality, the space of empathy, and the relationship of eros
to the value of Being. But at the same time, he examines the difficulties
and obstructions toward achieving and maintaining a successful erotic relationship—
e.g., existential despair due to unsuccessful progress in a relationship,
the adulterous affair, various fears of transformation, and various inauthentic
and equivocal experiences related to eros.
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