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The Story of Philosophy. Contemporary American Philosophers: Santayana, James and Dewey Audiobook
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"The Story of Philosophy: Contemporary American Philosophers: Santayana, James, and Dewey" by Will Durant provides a detailed and accessible exploration of the lives, ideas, and lasting contributions of three pivotal figures in American philosophy.
George Santayana: Durant presents Santayana as a poet-philosopher known for his writings on aesthetics, metaphysics, and the philosophy of religion. Santayana's emphasis on the spiritual and the eternal, combined with his skeptical view of materialism, offers a unique perspective on the human condition. His famous aphorism, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it," underscores his belief in the importance of historical awareness.
William James: The book delves into the pragmatic philosophy of William James, highlighting his belief that the truth of an idea is determined by its practical effects. James's works on psychology, religion, and philosophy promote a pluralistic universe where human experience and action shape reality. His influential concepts, such as the "will to believe" and "radical empiricism," reflect his focus on the dynamic and experiential aspects of human life.
John Dewey: Durant explores Dewey's contributions to education, democracy, and social reform. Dewey's philosophy of pragmatism emphasized the importance of experiential learning and the role of education in fostering democratic citizenship. His ideas on instrumentalism advocate for the application of scientific methods to solve social problems, reflecting his belief in the continuous interaction between humans and their environment.
Durant’s engaging narrative brings these philosophers' thoughts to life, illustrating how their ideas have shaped contemporary American thought and continue to influence various fields, from education to politics. "The Story of Philosophy: Contemporary American Philosophers" is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the development of American philosophy and its impact on modern
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About Will Durant
Will Durant (1885–1981) was an award-winning American writer, historian, and philosopher. He and his wife were awarded the Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction in 1968 for Rousseau and Revolution, and he was a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Durant spent over forty years writing the critically acclaimed eleven-volume Story of Civilization, the later volumes with the help of his wife, Ariel. He sought to revitalize history by unifying and humanizing the great body of historical knowledge, which had become voluminous and fragmented into esoteric subcategories. He also strove to bring philosophy to the common man. Durant was a champion of human rights, social reform, and the brotherhood of man long before they became well-known issues.