Abstract(s)
It is striking to notice that Fichte intended the first written version of his Doctrine of
Science (1794-95) “for his listeners,” namely for the students of the University of Jena where he
had just taken up his post. Fichte has in fact always believed that the ‘letter’ of the scientific
exposition of his philosophy should come along with an oral explanation, thereby establishing a
direct contact with his audience in order to avoid misunderstandings. Throughout his career, he
has been suspicious of the “written” word and this attitude explains at least in part the
disagreement that took place between him and Schiller concerning the article “on the spirit and
the letter in philosophy.” With Fichte, these two terms take a special meaning that illustrates, in
an enlightening manner, the way he envisages transcendental philosophy and its mode of
transmission.