A Thousand Plateaus and Philosophy (2018), edited by Henry Somers-Hall, Jeffrey A. Bell, and James Williams, is a comprehensive collection of essays that delve into the philosophical dimensions of Deleuze and Guattari’s A Thousand Plateaus. The volume brings together international scholars to provide in-depth analyses of each “plateau” or chapter, highlighting the work’s innovative approach to philosophy.
Main Themes and Contributions:
- Reaffirmation of Philosophical Significance: The editors emphasize that A Thousand Plateaus represents a novel mode of philosophical inquiry, challenging traditional structures and advocating for a non-linear, rhizomatic approach to thought.
- Plateau-by-Plateau Analysis: Each essay corresponds to a specific plateau, offering detailed examinations of key concepts such as the rhizome, body without organs, faciality, and the war machine. This structure allows readers to engage deeply with individual sections while appreciating the interconnectedness of the whole.
- Interdisciplinary Perspectives: Contributors draw from various disciplines, including linguistics, political theory, and art, to explore how Deleuze and Guattari’s ideas intersect with broader cultural and theoretical contexts.
- Emphasis on Conceptual Innovation: The volume highlights how A Thousand Plateaus introduces new philosophical concepts and methodologies, encouraging readers to think beyond conventional frameworks and embrace multiplicity and difference.
Overall, A Thousand Plateaus and Philosophy serves as both a guide and a critical companion to Deleuze and Guattari’s work, offering insights that underscore its enduring relevance and transformative potential in contemporary philosophical discourse.
