Heteronomy: the other of the law.

Abstract

This article explores the problematic relationship of memory and justice from the perspective of Levinas’ heteronomous ethics. I refer to the ethical concerns of the ancient cynics, which is revised through literature (Kafka, Joseph Roth) vis-à-vis justice as conceived by modern moral autonomy. Memory and justice are preoccupations formulated by Benjamin and condensed in the allegory of the hunchback where ubiquitous shame resonates. The Hebrew meanings of justice allow me to think these problems in the context of heteronomy, which goes beyond the opposite of autonomy.