Luhmann Interview

Follow this link for a short video clip of an interview with Niklas Luhmann. The interview’s also on YouTube, but without English translation. Even though the interview’s from 1973, it’s fairly accessible and I think still valid as a way of gaining some perspective on Luhmann’s approach to systems theory, even in his later ‘autopoietic’ phase.

Credit: I found out about this clip while perusing the staggeringly fascinating site Larval Subjects, which I just discovered recently. Anyone interested in psychoanalytic theory (especially the work of Deleuze) as well broader issues in identity philosophy and related subjects should follow the conversations / posts on this site.

Addendum: Also, on Tina Guenther’s site, Sozlog, a YouTube video about Luhmann’s famous notecard system. I had heard about his system but it was nice to see an actual video of him using and explaining it. It’s sad: despite my efforts to use up-to-date technology to maintain my reading notes and records, my ability to manage always seem to break down at a certain level of critical mass. Luhmann’s system, antiquated thought it may appear, helped him to maintain an astonishing productivity not likely to be replicated in the near future.

Addendum 2: As indicated in the comments, Daniel at Strenge Jacke has the video subbed in English. My German isn’t great, so his efforts are much appreciated!