Abstract

This article analyzes and discusses two recent interpretations of the paradigm of "Anerkennung" that became relevant in contemporary Critical Theory, namely those that have been outlined by Emmanuel Renault and Jean-Philippe Deranty. It first argues that both readings may be considered as fruitful attempts to radicalize Axel Honneth's theoretical proposal through an original (and controversial) synthesis of it with Marx's critique of political economy. It then asks whether such an assemblage is conceptually sustainable. By questioning the possibility of "marrying" the normative core of the theory of recognition to the objective core of Marx's materialist analysis of society, the article tests the consistency and the efficacy of the "Anerkennung" model, challenging its critical potential and its capacity to disclose the thinkability of conflicts and transformations.