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Philosophical Essays, Volume 1

• Scott Soames

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Philosophical Essays, Volume 1: Natural Language: What It Means and How We Use It

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The two volumes of Philosophical Essays bring together the most important essays written by one of the world’s foremost philosophers of language. Scott Soames has selected thirty-one essays spanning nearly three decades of thinking about linguistic meaning and the philosophical significance of language. A judicious collection of old and new, these volumes include sixteen essays published in the 1980s and 1990s, nine published since 2000, and six new essays. The essays in Volume 1 investigate what linguistic meaning is; how the meaning of a sentence is related to the use we make of it; what we should expect from empirical theories of the meaning of the languages we speak; and how a sound theoretical grasp of the intricate relationship between meaning and use can improve the interpretation of legal texts. The essays in Volume 2 illustrate the significance of linguistic concerns for a broad range of philosophical topics—including the relationship between language and thought; the objects of belief, assertion, and other propositional attitudes; the distinction between metaphysical and epistemic possibility; the nature of necessity, actuality, and possible worlds; the necessary a posteriori and the contingent a priori; truth, vagueness, and partial definition; and skepticism about meaning and mind. The two volumes of Philosophical Essays are essential for anyone working on the philosophy of language.

"Soames's work is of an exceptionally high quality, the selections made here are truly excellent, and the organization is well thought out. Having these papers available in this form is a great boon to scholars."—Stephen Neale, CUNY Graduate Center

"Since many of these important papers are relatively inaccessible, it is particularly useful to have them collected together, and Soames has done an excellent job of selecting and arranging them. These two volumes are really terrific."—Alex Byrne, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

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Vagaries of Desire: A Collection of Philosophical Essays

Series:  value inquiry book series , volume: 340 value inquiry book series online , volume: 340 philosophy, literature, and politics , volume: 340.

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Part 1 analytical issues, chapter 1 introduction: depicting desire.

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Chapter 2 Beliefs and Desires

Chapter 3 push and pull theories of desire, chapter 4 our anxious desires, chapter 5 rené girard and mimetic desire, part 2 desire in context: philosophy and literature, chapter 6 death, desire, and the generation of metaphor, chapter 7 kafka: tropes of desire, chapter 8 lost in kafka’s america, chapter 9 thomas hobbes on intentionality, desire, and happiness, part 3 sexuality, chapter 10 sadomasochistic desire, chapter 11 tricky sexual differences: what is perversion, biographical note, table of contents, part 1: analytical issues, part 2: desire in context, part 3: sexuality, share link with colleague or librarian, product details.

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• Vagaries of desire : a collection of philosophical essays
• "Vagaries of Desire is a major collection of new essays by Timo Airaksinen on the philosophy of desire. The first part develops a novel account of the philosophical theory of desire, including Girard. The second part discusses Kafka's main works, namely The Castle, The Trial, and Amerika, and Thomas Hobbes and the problems of intentionality. The text develops such linguistic tropes as metaphor and metonymy in connection with topics like death and then applies them to Kafka's texts. The third part makes an effort to understand the mysteries of sadism and masochism in philosophical and rhetorical terms. The last article criticizes Thomas Nagel's influential account of sexual perversion and develops a viable alternative"-- Provided by publisher.
• Airaksinen, Timo, 1947- author

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• Leiden ; Boston : Brill-Rodopi, 2019.
• -  Desire (Philosophy)
• -  Includes index.
• -  Description based on print version record and CIP data provided by publisher; resource not viewed.
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• Desire (Philosophy)

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Chicago citation style:

Airaksinen, Timo, Author. Vagaries of Desire: A Collection of Philosophical Essays . Leiden ; Boston: Brill-Rodopi, 2019. Pdf. https://www.loc.gov/item/2019025588/.

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Airaksinen, T. (2019) Vagaries of Desire: A Collection of Philosophical Essays . Leiden ; Boston: Brill-Rodopi. [Pdf] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/item/2019025588/.

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Airaksinen, Timo, Author. Vagaries of Desire: A Collection of Philosophical Essays . Leiden ; Boston: Brill-Rodopi, 2019. Pdf. Retrieved from the Library of Congress, <www.loc.gov/item/2019025588/>.

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Philosophical Essays

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First published in 1910, Philosophical Essays is one of Bertrand Russell’s earliest works and marks an important period in the evolution of thought of one of the world’s most influential thinkers. This selection of seven essays displays Russell's incisiveness and brilliance of exposition in the examination of ethical subjects and the nature of truth. Insightful and highly accessible, these essays are as illuminating today as they were on first publication.

Table of Contents

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.

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• Selected Philosophical Essays

Selected Philosophical Essays

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• Cited by 16

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• Carl G. Hempel
• Edited by Richard Jeffrey
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Carl Gustav Hempel (1905–97) was one of the preeminent figures in the philosophical movement of logical empiricism. He was a member of both the Berlin and Vienna circles, fled Germany in 1934 and finally settled in the US where he taught for many years in New York, Princeton, and Pittsburgh. The essays in this collection come from the early and late periods of Hempel's career and chart his intellectual odyssey from a rigorous commitment to logical positivism in the 1930s (when Hempel allied himself closely with Carnap) to a more sociological approach close in spirit to the work of Neurath and Kuhn. The collection brings together essays which have up till now been difficult to find, four of which are appearing in English for the first time. Cumulatively they offer a fresh perspective on Hempel's intellectual development and on the rise and demise of logical empiricism.

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Frontmatter pp i-iv

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Contents pp v-vi

Preface pp vii-x.

• By Richard Jeffrey , Princeton, NJ

Dates pp xi-xii

Introduction pp 1-4.

• Philosophical Essays, Early and Late

TRUTH pp 5-8

Chapter 1 - on the logical positivists' theory of truth pp 9-20, chapter 2 - some remarks on “facts” and propositions pp 21-25, chapter 3 - some remarks on empiricism pp 26-34, chapter 4 - the problem of truth pp 35-74, chapter 5 - the irrelevance of the concept of truth for the critical appraisal of scientific theories pp 75-84, probability pp 85-88, chapter 6 - on the content of probability statements pp 89-123, chapter 7 - on the logical form of probability statements pp 124-134, chapter 8 - a definition of “degree of confirmation” (with p. oppenheim) pp 135-162, methodology pp 163-164, chapter 9 - the logical analysis of psychology pp 165-180, chapter 10 - schlick and neurath: foundation vs. coherence in scientific knowledge pp 181-198, chapter 11 - on the cognitive status and the rationale of scientific methodology pp 199-228, chapter 12 - provisoes: a problem concerning the inferential function of scientific theories pp 229-250, memoirs pp 251-252, chapter 13 - rudolf carnap: logical empiricist pp 253-267, chapter 14 - the vienna circle and the metamorphoses of its empiricism pp 268-287, chapter 15 - hans reichenbach remembered pp 288-294, chapter 16 - empiricism in the vienna circle and in the berlin society for scientific philosophy: recollections and reflections pp 295-304, c. g. hempel's publications pp 305-314, index pp 315-317, altmetric attention score, full text views.

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The Greatest Books of All Time on Essays

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 371 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page .

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Essays are a category of books that typically consist of a collection of written works by a single author or multiple authors. These works are typically non-fiction and explore a wide range of topics, from personal experiences and opinions to social and political issues. Essays are often characterized by their informal tone, personal voice, and the author's unique perspective on the subject matter. They can be thought-provoking, informative, and entertaining, and are often used as a means of exploring complex ideas and issues in a more accessible and engaging way.

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1. Essays by Michel de Montaigne

The complete essays.

This collection of essays explores a wide range of topics such as solitude, cannibals, the power of the imagination, the education of children, and the nature of friendship. The author employs a unique and personal approach to philosophy, using anecdotes and personal reflections to illustrate his points. The essays provide a profound insight into human nature and condition, and are considered a significant contribution to both literature and philosophy.

2. Pensées by Blaise Pascal

"Pensées" is a collection of philosophical and theological thoughts and ideas by a renowned French mathematician and physicist. The book delves into various aspects of human existence, exploring the nature of faith, reason, and the human condition. It also presents arguments for the existence of God, including the famous wager argument. The book is known for its profound insights into the human experience and its exploration of the complexities of belief and doubt.

3. Poems of W. H. Auden by W. H. Auden

This book is a collection of poems by a renowned 20th-century poet. The poems cover a wide range of themes, including love, politics, religion, and the human condition. The poet's unique style combines traditional forms with modernist free verse and his work is known for its technical achievement, emotional depth, and engagement with moral and political issues. The collection provides an overview of the poet's career, showcasing his development and evolution as a writer.

4. The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus

And other essays.

This book is a philosophical essay that explores the concept of absurdity, and how individuals should respond to life's inherent meaninglessness. It posits that life is essentially absurd due to the conflict between our desire for understanding and the chaotic, indifferent universe. The author argues that the only proper response to this absurdity is to live life to its fullest, embracing and rebelling against the absurdity, rather than resorting to suicide or turning to religion or philosophy for false comfort. The story of Sisyphus, condemned to eternally roll a boulder up a hill only for it to roll back down, is used as a metaphor for the human condition.

5. Slouching Towards Bethlehem by Joan Didion

This book is a collection of essays that capture the essence of the 1960s in California. It portrays a society in the midst of social and cultural upheaval, as traditional norms are challenged by the counterculture movement. The author explores various themes including morality, self-respect, and the nature of good and evil, while providing a vivid picture of the era through her insightful and incisive observations.

6. Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin

This book is a collection of essays that vividly capture the author's life in Harlem, his travels in Europe, and his views on everything from the sweet music of black church revivals to the biting prejudice of the 'then' contemporary world. It's an exploration of racial, sexual, and class distinctions in both Western societies and the American society. The author's reflections on his experiences as a black man in white America are profoundly insightful and continue to resonate today.

7. Tristes Tropiques by Claude Lévi-Strauss

An anthropological study of primitive societies.

"Tristes Tropiques" is a blend of autobiography, travel literature, and anthropology by a renowned scholar. The book is a recounting of the author's travels and anthropological work, primarily in Brazil, in the 1930s. It provides a critical and philosophical reflection on his experiences and observations, offering insights into indigenous tribes like the Nambikwara and Tupi-Kawahib, and exploring themes of cultural change, the nature of anthropology, and the author's own disillusionment with Western civilization.

8. The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin

This book is a powerful exploration of race relations in America in the early 1960s. The author presents his experiences and observations in the form of two essays. The first is a letter to his 14-year-old nephew, discussing the role of race in American history. The second essay takes a broader look at the civil rights movement and the author's own experiences with religion and identity. Throughout, the author presents a passionate plea for the recognition of the humanity and dignity of all people, regardless of race.

9. Christ Stopped at Eboli by Carlo Levi

The story of a year.

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10. Collected Essays of George Orwell by George Orwell

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11. Selected Essays of T. S. Eliot by T. S. Eliot

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12. Symposium by Plato

In "Symposium", a group of notable men including philosophers, playwrights, and politicians gather at a banquet and decide to each give a speech in praise of the god of love. Each speech presents a different perspective on love, ranging from the purely physical to the spiritual. The dialogue culminates with the speech of Socrates, who presents a philosophical view of love as a means of ascending to contemplation of the divine.

13. Mythologies by Roland Barthes

This book is a collection of essays that explore the layers of cultural and societal meanings that are imbued in everyday objects, activities, and phenomena. The author decodes the symbols and signs embedded in things as varied as wrestling, soap detergents, toys, and even the face of Greta Garbo. The book is a pioneering exploration of semiotics, the study of signs and symbols, and it challenges readers to question and understand the cultural connotations and ideologies that are presented as natural or given in our everyday lives.

14. The Liberal Imagination by Lionel Trilling

Essays on literature and society.

"The Liberal Imagination" is a collection of essays that scrutinize and challenge the ideas, politics, and cultural norms of liberal society. The author argues that liberalism often simplifies complex issues and overlooks the inherent contradictions and conflicts in human life. Using literature as a tool, he delves into the nuances of these issues and encourages readers to engage in critical thinking and self-examination. The book is a profound exploration of the strengths and weaknesses of liberal thought and its impact on society.

15. Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke

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16. Essays and Aphorisms by Arthur Schopenhauer

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17. Orthodoxy by G. K. Chesterton

"Orthodoxy" is a classic work of Christian apologetics that explores and defends the beliefs that are central to Christian faith. The author presents his personal journey towards faith, arguing for the reasonableness of Christianity. He challenges popular assumptions of his time about religion, faith, and the world while presenting a compelling case for orthodox Christian belief, using both logic and wit. The book combines personal anecdotes, historical critique, and philosophical discourse to present a deeply intellectual and sincere exploration of Christianity.

18. The Pillow Book by Sei Shōnagon

"The Pillow Book" is a collection of personal observations, anecdotes, and reflections by a woman in the Heian court of Japan. It presents a detailed and vivid picture of court life, including the lavish ceremonies, the rivalries and intrigues, the idle pastimes of the courtiers, and the romantic escapades of the empress and her consorts. The book also contains lists, poetry, and personal musings, providing a unique perspective on the culture and customs of the Heian period.

19. The Country of the Pointed Firs by Sarah Orne Jewett

"The Country of the Pointed Firs" is a series of sketches about life in a small coastal town in Maine. The narrator, a woman writer who is spending the summer in the town, introduces readers to the local characters and their stories. The book explores themes of community, solitude, time, and the natural world, painting a vivid picture of rural life at the turn of the 20th century.

20. Essays of E. B. White by E. B. White

This book is a collection of essays written by a renowned American writer, offering a wide range of topics including nature, politics, literature, and personal experiences. The author's distinct style of writing, characterized by wit, humor, and profound insight, is evident throughout the book. The essays serve as a reflection of the author's thoughts and observations about life, society, and the world, providing readers with an intimate look into his mind and perspective.

21. Against Interpretation by Susan Sontag

And other essays.

This book is a collection of essays that challenge the traditional methods of interpretation and criticism of art and culture. The author argues that in our attempt to interpret and find deeper meaning, we often overlook the sensory experience of the work itself. The book encourages readers to experience art in its raw form, focusing on the form, color, and sounds, rather than trying to decipher a hidden meaning. It is a call for a new, more direct approach to consuming art and culture.

22. Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

This book is a collection of humorous, autobiographical essays that explore the author's experiences and observations in his life. The first part of the book focuses on his upbringing in North Carolina, his Greek heritage, his relationship with his eccentric family, and his early jobs. The second part of the book details his move to Normandy, France, his struggle to learn the French language, and his observations of French culture. The author's self-deprecating humor and sharp wit provide a satirical view of his life's journey.

23. Rationalism in Politics by Michael Oakeshott

"Rationalism in Politics" is a collection of essays that critique the role of rationalism in politics, arguing that political decisions should be based on tradition and experience rather than abstract theories. The author asserts that rationalism, with its emphasis on premeditated, systematic approaches, often fails to acknowledge the complexity and unpredictability of human behavior and social dynamics. He emphasizes the importance of practical knowledge, acquired through experience, in political decision-making and criticizes the rationalist's disregard for such wisdom.

24. A Supposedly Fun Thing I'll Never Do Again by David Foster Wallace

Essays and arguments.

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25. The Anatomy of Melancholy by Robert Burton

What it is, with all the kinds, causes, symptoms, prognostics, and several cures of it. in three partitions, with their several sections, members, and subsections. philosophically, medicinally, historically opened and cut up..

"The Anatomy of Melancholy" is a comprehensive and detailed exploration of melancholy, a term used to describe a variety of mental states, including depression, anxiety, and sadness. The author examines the causes, symptoms, and treatments of melancholy from a variety of perspectives, incorporating elements of psychology, philosophy, history, and literature. The book is notable for its extensive use of classical sources, its humorous and satirical style, and its profound insights into human nature and the human condition.

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Moral Problems: A Collection of Philosophical Essays Paperback – January 1, 1979

• Print length 507 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Harpercollins College Div
• Publication date January 1, 1979
• ISBN-10 0063871009
• ISBN-13 978-0063871007
• See all details

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Harpercollins College Div; 3rd edition (January 1, 1979)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 507 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0063871009
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0063871007
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.46 pounds
• #23,405 in Philosophy of Ethics & Morality

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Moral Problems; a Collection of Philosophical Essays

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Moral Problems: A Collection of Philosophical Essays