Différance and Difference and Their Implications for the Nature of the Self and God: A Comparison of Derrida and Madhva

Abstract

The article "Différance and Difference and Their Implications for the Nature of the Self and God: A Comparison of Derrida and Madhva" by Carl Olson explores a cross-cultural philosophical dialogue between Jacques Derrida's postmodern theory of différance and Madhva's Dvaita Vedānta concept of bheda (difference). The article contrasts Derrida’s deconstructive approach, where difference disrupts metaphysics, with Madhva’s theological affirmation of essential differences between the self, God, and the world—revealing profound implications for understanding identity and divinity in both traditions.