British Idealism and Social Explanation: A Study in Late Victorian Thought (Oxford Historical Monographs) [Hardcover]

Sandra M. Den Otter (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0198206003 | ISBN-13: 978-0198206002 | Publication Date: May 23, 1996

Idealism became the dominant philosophical school of thought in late nineteenth-century Britain. In this original and stimulating study, Sandra den Otter examines its roots in Greek and German thinking and locates it among the prevalent methodologies and theories of the period: empiricism and positivism, naturalism, evolution, and utilitarianism. In particular, she sets it in the context of the late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century debate about a science of society and the contemporary preoccupation with `community'.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Idealism,...had a powerful run, and Den Otter's book is a clear and effective guide to its history."--Albion

"With this intelligent, well-written, and subtly nuanced look at British idealism's contribution to the development of social theory, den Otter has provided another glimpse of the enormous intellectual ferment of the late Victorian era that served as a theoretical counterpoint to the upheavals in the practical world of British parliamentary politics from the 1880s onward, creating a pattern of confusion and fluidity that endured to the end of the interwar period, by which time idealism was a spent force."American Historical Review

"This is a well-thought-out book, which contributes to a growing appreciation of the significance of British idealist thought."--Journal of Modern History

"...an original and admirable....offers a fresh perspective....Her book is well researched, using the expected source materials and tapping some informative new ones as well. It displays the philosophical insight as well as historical sense essential for an enterprise of this nature. She is strong on identifying issues and analysing the range of positions on them, recapturing the complexity and fluidity of opinion and bringing order to it....she significantly expands our understanding and appreciation of the idealists."--Victorian Studies

About the Author

Sandra M. den Otter is a Lecturer in History at Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 264 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (May 23, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0198206003
• ISBN-13: 978-0198206002
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.7 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #6,727,868 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.