Ekonomie en subjektiwiteit: die verkenning tot alternatiewe op die moderne ekonomisme

In this thesis the relationship between economics and subjectivity will be explored critically by means of a historic and systematic analysis and interpretation of the philosophical sources on the topic. This analysis will provide material for an alternative to the current dominant economism by tracing back the influence of modern political economy on the modern subject, especially the development of the means to transform from moved to mover. Humanity’s ability to put things into movement and influence their fate as well as that of the rest of life on earth, finds expression in the word freedom, in which both possibility as well as danger lurks. From the many philosophical sources on freedom, the choice fell on Kant and Hegel, precisely because both place strong emphasis of reason as important supplement to freedom. The former explores the different facets of reason within the subjek, while Hegel shows the development of reason as being manifested in ethical relation and traditions. The last chapter will combine these insights with an interpretation Heidegger’s notion of dwelling as principle for the oikos. The conclusion argues for an economy of value, within which humanity understands its ecomnomic activity as part of dwelling, interpreting its freedom and reason as being directed to this end.