On Extension

The point of intersection between the theoretical paths of Nancy and Arendt lies in the theme that is also the most difficult problem they bequeath to us. Both, in fact, think of being in terms of a drive to appear, a movement that tends to be infinite and, for that very reason dangerous, and yet one that must be indulged and even urged. Thought must, so to speak, stay close to this original dimension in which extension spaces itself: it is in this proximity that existence experiences a thrill, a fervor. It is what Arendt calls “public happiness” and Nancy calls “ferveur” or “extase”. The stakes of both philosophical exercises are very similar. It is a matter of identifying with extreme accuracy and within a much broader ontological drive, the narrow space between an intensification of existence comparable to fascist and fusional ardor, and an exposition that remains at a suspended step. It is a matter of taking the narrow path between mystical ecstasy, and an inoperative ecstasy, that is, a projection towards the outside that does not access any surreality, but merely spaces – continually putting back into play – immanence in which we are.