Description
Book SynopsisThe studies collected here are united both by a common methodology of probative investigation and by their common purpose of providing instructive insight into a varied spectrum of important philosophical issues.
Trade ReviewThis new collection of reflections on contemporary philosophy and culture is remarkable for both its synoptic power and its breadth of vision. Rescher writes with clarity, historical wisdom, and thought-provoking insight. A delight to read. -- James W. Felt, Santa Clara University
Minding Matter shows Rescher at the top of his form, working out the consequences of his conceptual pragmatism for the central problems of philosophy. Of special interest in this volume are his metaphilosophical reflections on the history of twentieth century philosophy, idealism, analytic philosophy, and American thought. Rescher is masterful in using the techniques of analytic philosophy—explicit and rigorous argument, scrupulous attention to details and distinctions—in examining the scope andlimits of analytic philosophy itself... -- Hugh Wilder, The College of Charleston
Minding Matter shows Rescher at the top of his form, working out the consequences of his conceptual pragmatism for the central problems of philosophy. Of special interest in this volume are his metaphilosophical reflections on the history of twentieth century philosophy, idealism, analytic philosophy, and American thought. Rescher is masterful in using the techniques of analytic philosophy—explicit and rigorous argument, scrupulous attention to details and distinctions—in examining the scope and limits of analytic philosophy itself. -- Hugh Wilder, The College of Charleston
Table of ContentsPart 1 Introduction Part 2 On Philosophizing and Metaphilosophy Chapter 3 The Rise and Fall of Analytic Philosophy Chapter 4 End-of-the-Century Philosophizing: A Return to Systems? Chapter 5 Who Has Won the Big Battles of Twentieth-Century Philosophy? Chapter 6 Perspectives on Nature in American Thought Part 7 On Values and Human Affairs Chapter 8 Nomic Hierarchies and Problems of Relativism Chapter 9 Is Reasoning about Values Viciously Circular? Chapter 10 Homo Optans: On the Human Condition and the Burden of Choice Chapter 11 Risking Democracy: Some Reflections on Contemporary Problems of Political Decision Part 12 Bibliography Part 13 Index
