A transformação da filosofia entre a reflexão transcendental e a reconstrução racional: sobre o sentido de uma contraposição filosófica contemporânea

The article aims to show the fundamental differences between Habermas’s and Apel’s projects to transform philosophy. These differences can be measured by comparing Apel’s concept of transcendental reflection and Habermas’s method of rational reconstruction. Based on these differences, it is possible to state that the transformation of philosophy in Apel’s thought means to give another way to the attempt by first philosophy to establish an ultimate foundation for itself and the sciences while the Habermasian concept of reconstruction assigns philosophy the most innovative role of stand-in for scientific theories and interpreter of cultural developments.