The Eighteenth century is one of the most important periods in the history of Western philosophy, witnessing philosophical, scientific, and social and political change on a vast scale. In spite of this, there are few single volume overviews of the philosophy of the period as a whole.
The Routledge Companion to Eighteenth Century Philosophy
is an authoritative survey and assessment of this momentous period, covering major thinkers, topics and movements in Eighteenth century philosophy. Beginning with a substantial introduction by Aaron Garrett, the thirty-five specially commissioned chapters by an outstanding team of international contributors are organised into seven clear parts:
Context and Movements
Metaphysics and Understanding
Mind, Soul, and Perception
Morals and Aesthetics
Politics and Society
Philosophy in relation to the Arts and Sciences
Major Figures.
Major topics and themes are explored and discussed, ranging from materialism, free will and personal identity; to the emotions, the social contract, aesthetics, and the sciences, including mathematics and biology. The final section examines in more detail three figures central to the period: Hume, Rousseau and Kant. As such
is essential reading for all students of the period, both in philosophy and related disciplines such as politics, literature, history and religious studies.