Philosophical Essays

Description

This collection of essays dates from the first decade of this century, and marks an important period in the evolution of Bertrand Russell’s thought. Now available in paperback for the first time, they display all of Russell’s clarity, incisiveness and brilliance of exposition, particularly on matters of ethics and the nature of truth. Russell intended the collection `to appeal to those who take an interest in philosophical questions without having had a professional training in philosophy’ – those people will find these writings just as illuminating today.

Table of Contents

1. Preface
2. Preface to original edition
3. The Elements of Ethics
4. On History
5. Science and Hypothesis (A Review)
6. Pragmatism
7. William James’s Conception of Truth
8. The Monistic Theory of Truth
9. On the Nature of Truth and Falsehood

Reviews

`We have nothing but praise for these essays. It is rare for a man of great learning to come down into the philosophical arena and dispute with such lucidity, and above all with such sympathy, the views that he is criticising.’ – The Oxford Magazine

`In the manner of self-restraint, clear statement and rigorous argument these essays are models of what such essays should be.’ – The Glasgow Herald

`A serious and important contribution to philosophical literature’ – The Hibbert Journal

Author Biography

Bertrand Russell (1872–1970) was one of the most formidable thinkers of the modern era. A philosopher, mathematician, educational innovator, champion of intellectual, social and sexual freedom, and a campaigner for peace and human rights, he was also a prolific writer of popular and influential books, essays and lectures on an extensive range of subjects.

Considered to be one of the most controversial figures of the twentieth century, Bertrand Russell is widely renowned for his provocative writings. These definitive works offer profound insights and forward-thinking perspectives on a changing western society progressively shaped, most significantly, by two world wars, the decline of British imperialism and an evolving moral landscape.