The Persistent Problems of Philosophy (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781025327181)

"The Persistent Problems of Philosophy" is an influential survey of Western philosophical thought, meticulously crafted to provide an introductory study of metaphysics through a critical examination of major systems and thinkers. Mary Whiton Calkins explores the fundamental questions regarding the nature of the self, the external world, and the absolute, guiding readers through the evolution of monism, pluralism, and idealism. By analyzing the core ideas of figures such as Descartes, Spinoza, Leibniz, Berkeley, Hume, Kant, and Hegel, the work offers a cohesive framework for understanding the complex metaphysical debates that have shaped intellectual history.

Renowned for its clarity and its distinct "personalistic" approach, this volume represents a significant milestone in American philosophy. Calkins focuses on the problems that have persistently occupied the minds of great thinkers, bridging the gap between historical systems and contemporary inquiry. This scholarly yet accessible work remains a foundational resource for students and scholars, providing deep insights into the quest for ultimate reality and the philosophical foundations of human experience. It stands as a testament to the enduring value of rigorous philosophical discourse.

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