critical theory with slavoj zizek: For Lacan, desire is a form of entrapment that is governed by the Hegelian dialectic: the Aufhebung confirms the subject as a desiring being. Desire (of the slave) is the desire to be in the place of the Other (the master). This desire can only come to an end when life does: death is the absolute master. But, for Ricoeur, both slave and master are able to live their lives once they recognise each other: this is mutual recognition, not the meconnaissance of ‘primary narcissism’; the absolute master is not death; but life; life is lived in mutuality once desire has been left behind.