The Lesser Existences Av David Lapoujade

<P><B>On the complex aesthetics and ontology at work in Étienne Souriau’s unique oeuvre</B><BR/><BR/> In this concise but expansive exegesis of the philosophical aesthetics of Étienne Souriau, philosopher David Lapoujade provides a lucid introduction to many of the key concepts underpinning Souriau’s existential pluralism. Among the various modes of existence that populate a world, Souriau grants particular importance to <I>virtual</I> beings—the <I>lesser</I><I>existences</I>. Always taking the form of a sketch or an outline, the perfection of such existences lies precisely in the incompletion with which they imbue all reality. They exist with a problematizing force, posing questions and inviting the establishment of an “art” that would make them more real. And yet, for this to happen, another existence must first see them—must be capable of hearing their appeals—and must be willing to defend their right to exist.</P><P>Through