In the context of philosophical posthumanism, post-dualism refers to the rejection or transcendence of traditional dualistic frameworks that separate entities into opposing categories such as mind/body, human/animal, or nature/culture.
Dualism has been a prominent feature of Western philosophical thought, particularly in the Cartesian dualism proposed by René Descartes, which posits a strict division between the immaterial mind (res cogitans) and the material body (res extensa). Similarly, dualisms such as human/animal and nature/culture have historically reinforced hierarchies and power dynamics, often privileging one side over the other.
Post-dualism, on the other hand, challenges these dualistic distinctions by advocating for a more holistic and interconnected view of existence. It seeks to blur or dissolve boundaries between traditionally opposing categories, recognizing the complex and intertwined nature of reality. In the context of posthumanism, post-dualism suggests a move beyond anthropocentrism (human-centeredness) and acknowledges the agency and value of non-human entities, including animals, ecosystems, and even technological systems.
By embracing post-dualism, philosophical posthumanism encourages a more inclusive and pluralistic worldview that acknowledges the interconnectedness and interdependence of all beings, thereby challenging traditional hierarchies and promoting ethical considerations beyond human interests.
