Survival and Extinction: Deconstruction, Extinction Studies, Paleontology

Abstract

Abstract:What is extinction? What is the difference between death and extinction? Between evolution (surviving as other) and extinction (not surviving at all)? This article begins by considering the articulation of extinction in Extinction Studies. Combining rigorous philosophical insights with cutting-edge scientific research, Extinction Studies offers one of the best understandings we have: the extinct is not “what it is” (absolutely gone), but remains (in both senses of the word). The extinct’s absence survives, calling to us from beyond the grave. However, I argue almost the exact opposite in this article: extinction is remainderless. And extinction itself is going extinct.