Full Idea
The subversive patterns of thought in deconstruction are a last spasm of romanticism: one that has given up hope of an otherworldly redemption, and set out instead to destroy the illusions in which other still believe, the source of their power.
Gist of Idea
Deconstruction is the last spasm of romanticism, now become hopeless and destructive
Source
Roger Scruton (Upon Nothing: Swansea lecture [1993], p.29)
Book Reference
Scruton,Roger: 'Upon Nothing' [University of Swansea 1993], p.29
A Reaction
It seems to be strongly connected with the failure of marxism in Europe, but it also seems to inherit all the values of the Dada movement.