The concept of ultimate foundation in the phenomenology of Max Scheler

Abstract

This paper analyzes Max Scheler’s concept of “ultimate foundation”, using as the primary source his masterpiece The human place in the cosmos. Without the intent of being exhaustive, but rather introductory, this work presents Scheler’s reflection on metaphysics and the implication of his innovative concept that rejects the classic concept of ultimate foundation for his anthropology, phenomenology, and cosmology. The first section addresses his concept of “soul”. The second examines his concept of “body” (anthropos). The third, in turn, analyzes the concept of ultimate foundation. The last section examines the relation between his concept of metaphysics and his phenomenology.