Steven G. Crowell

This study determines the place of reason in Heidegger's “Being and Time” (1927) and related works. Against the traditional definition of human being as "rational animal," Heidegger develops an ontology where "care" is prior to reason. The project argues that Heidegger is not thereby a deflationist concerning the claims of reason (the received view). Rather, the practice of giving and asking for reasons is central to his account of intentionality, first-person self-awareness, deliberation, and responsibility. Engaging continental and analytic philosophers, the project shows how Heidegger's existential approach to normativity enhances our understanding of the connection between personal identity and practical reason.