Classic American Philosophers

"It is increasingly apparent that American philosophy has had its classical period, corresponding to the Greek classical period -- Democritus through Aristotle. America's classical period began just after the Civil War and ended just before the Second World War. Its canon is already nearly fixed, and it includes six philosophers: Charles Sanders Peirce, William James, Josiah Royce, George Santayana, John Dewey and Alfred North Whitehead. The primary purpose of this volume is to introduce these philosophers to readers who do not yet know their writings at first hand. The writings of each of these philosophers is enhanced by a thoughtful introduction to each." [Back cover].

The Soul of Classical American Philosophy is an introduction to the thought of William James, Josiah Royce, and Charles Sanders Peirce, particularly in terms of the ethical and the spiritual. Writing for the nonspecialist in a straightforward style, Richard P. Mullin brings together the central ideas of these three key figures of classical American Pragmatism and explores their engagement with issues of truth, the meaning of self, free will, moral values, community, scientific thinking, and the relationship with the transcendent. He also addresses the growing international interest in American philosophy and sheds light on a defining movement in its history.

A selection of writings from the great American philosophers from the late nineteenth century to World War II.

Continuing his quest to bring American philosophy back to its roots, Bruce Wilshire connects the work of such thinkers as Thoreau, Emerson, Dewey, and James with Native American beliefs and practices. His search is not for exact parallels, but rather for fundamental affinities between the equally &"organismic&" thought systems of indigenous peoples and classic American philosophers. Wilshire gives particular emphasis to the affinities between Black Elk&’s view of the hoop of the world and Emerson&’s notion of horizon, and also between a shaman&’s healing practices and James&’s ideas of pure experience, willingness to believe, and a pluralistic universe. As these connections come into focus, the book shows how European phenomenology was inspired and influenced by the classic American philosophers, whose own work reveals the inspiration and influence of indigenous thought. Wilshire&’s book also reveals how artificial are the walls that separate the sciences and the humanities in academia, and that separate Continental from Anglo-American thought within the single discipline of philosophy.