Thoreau's Importance for Philosophy

Herausgeber: Furtak, Rick Anthony; Reid, James D.; Ellsworth, Jonathan

• Gebundenes Buch

Produktbeschreibung

Although Henry David Thoreau's best-known book, Walden, is admired as a classic work of American literature, it has not yet been widely recognized as an important philosophical text. In fact, many academic philosophers would be reluctant to classify Thoreau as a philosopher at all. The purpose of this volume is to remedy this neglect, to explain Thoreau's philosophical significance, and to argue that we can still learn from his polemical conception of philosophy. Thoreau sought to establish philosophy as a way of life and to root our philosophical, conceptual affairs in more practical or existential concerns. His work provides us with a sustained meditation on the importance of leading our lives with integrity, avoiding what he calls "quiet desperation." The contributors to this volume approach Thoreau's writings from different angles. They explore his aesthetic views, his naturalism, his theory of self, his ethical principles, and his political stances. Most importantly, they show how Thoreau returns philosophy to its roots as the love of wisdom.

Produktdetails

• American Philosophy
• Verlag: Fordham University Press
• Seitenzahl: 314
• Erscheinungstermin: 14. August 2012
• Englisch
• Abmessung: 236mm x 154mm x 25mm
• Gewicht: 551g
• ISBN-13: 9780823239306
• ISBN-10: 0823239306
• Artikelnr.: 33875317

Autorenporträt

Rick Anthony Furtak (External Editor) Rick Anthony Furtak is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Colorado College. Jonathan Ellsworth (External Editor) Jonathan Ellsworth is an independent scholar in Santa Fe. James D. Reid (External Editor) James D. Reid teaches philosophy at the United States Air Force Academy.