The Ego and Its Own is an 1844 work by Max Stirner. It presents a radically nominalist and individualist critique of, on the one hand, Christianity, nationalism and traditional morality, and on the other, humanism, utilitarianism, liberalism and much of the then-burgeoning socialist movement, advocating instead an amoral (although importantly not inherently immoral or antisocial) egoism. Ego emphasizes owness as self-description, past fixed conceptions of the Self and Other, through the recognition of power relations and self-discovery of mind. Johann Kaspar Schmidt (1806-1856), also known as Max Stirner, was a German philosopher who is often considered as one of the pioneers in anarchism, nihilism, existentialism, and postmodernism, and one of the many people who Karl Marx wrote an entire book on just to publicly criticize denounce.

Max Stirner's The Ego and Its Own is striking and distinctive in both style and content. First published in 1844, Stirner's distinctive and powerful polemic sounded the death-knell of left Hegelianism, with its attack on Ludwig Feuerbach, Bruno and Edgar Bauer, Moses Hess and others. It also constitutes an enduring critique of both liberalism and socialism from the perspective of an extreme eccentric individualism. Karl Marx was only one of many contemporaries provoked into a lengthy rebuttal of Stirner's argument. Stirner has been portrayed, variously, as a precursor of Nietzsche (both stylistically and substantively), a forerunner of existentialism and as an individualist anarchist. This edition of his work comprises a revised version of Steven Byington's much praised translation, together with an introduction and notes on the historical background to Stirner's text.

Welcome to the provocative world of Max Stirner's "The Ego and His Own," a philosophical journey that challenges conventional notions of individualism, society, and freedom. Prepare to embark on a thought-provoking exploration that pushes the boundaries of traditional thinking and invites readers to reconsider their own beliefs. As you delve into the pages of "The Ego and His Own," you'll encounter Stirner's groundbreaking ideas on egoism, emphasizing the sovereignty of the individual and the rejection of external authority. Through compelling arguments and sharp critiques, Stirner challenges readers to question the constraints of societal norms and embrace the power of self-interest. Join Stirner's relentless pursuit of personal freedom as he dismantles the illusions of morality, religion, and ideology that bind individuals to collective identities. Through incisive analysis and fearless rhetoric, Stirner advocates for radical self-liberation and the assertion of one's own desires and ambitions. Stirner's bold exploration of themes such as autonomy, self-realization, and existentialism resonates with readers seeking intellectual stimulation and philosophical insight. His provocative ideas provoke reflection and encourage readers to reevaluate their relationship with authority and social constructs. With its bold and uncompromising tone, "The Ego and His Own" challenges readers to confront the limitations of conventional wisdom and embrace the boundless potential of individual autonomy. Stirner's uncompromising vision of freedom and self-determination inspires readers to question the status quo and forge their own path in life. Since its publication in 1844, "The Ego and His Own" has sparked lively debate and garnered both praise and criticism for its radical ideas and uncompromising philosophy. Its enduring relevance continues to captivate readers interested in exploring the complexities of human nature and the nature of power. In conclusion, "The Ego and His Own" is more than just a philosophical treatise—it's a revolutionary manifesto that challenges readers to rethink their place in the world and embrace the full potential of individual autonomy. Whether you're a seasoned philosopher or a curious reader seeking intellectual stimulation, prepare to be captivated by the bold ideas and provocative insights of Max Stirner's timeless masterpiece. Don't miss your chance to engage with the radical ideas of Max Stirner. Let "The Ego and His Own" ignite your curiosity and challenge your beliefs. Grab your copy now and join the ranks of thinkers who have been inspired by Stirner's uncompromising vision of individual freedom.

"John F. Welsh provides us with a superb distillation of the thought of Max Stirner and the dialecticalegoist paradigm he developed. Througth this brilliant study. Welsh demonstrates the power and breadth of dialectics as a radical mode of analysis and social transformation--Chris Matthew Sciabarra author of Total Freedom: Toward a Dialectical Libertarianism.

Claimed repeatedly to be the most radical book ever written, The Ego And Its Own throws down a challenge to thousands of years of religious, philosophical and political depreciation of the individual. Criticising all doctrines and beliefs that demand the interests of the individual be subordinated to those of God, state, humanity, society, or some other fiction, Stirner declared war on all creeds that threatened individuality. In doing so, he championed a form of amoral egoism which still provokes cries of horror from moralists of right and left, religious and secular. The classic, from one of the founding fathers of anarchist thought, and a passionate defence of the individual against all forms of authority.