Existentialism: A Reconstruction (Introducing Philosophy) [Paperback]

David E. Cooper (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 28, 1999 | ISBN-10: 0631213236 | ISBN-13: 978-0631213239 | Edition: 2

First published in 1990, Existentialism is widely regarded as a classic introductory survey of the topic, and has helped to renew interest in existentialist philosophy.

The author places existentialism within the great traditions of philosophy, and argues that it deserves as much attention from analytic philosophers as it has always received on the continent.

Editorial Reviews

Review

‘This revision and update of David Cooper’s clear and careful reconstructive introduction to existentialist philosophy can only strengthen the impression the original gave that questions raised by existential thinkers are those on which all the larger philosophical debates converge. With its supplements on religion, politics and art, and a closer look at the Heidegger-Sartre link, the book is now an even more formidable challenge to those who still doubt this philosophy’s credentials.’ – Alastair Hannay, University of Oslo

‘In this clear and superbly written book, David Cooper provides a thematic presentation of the central ideas of existentialism. He has produced an invaluable work for students and general readers who can appreciate a well-argued, straightforward account of existentialism that does not sacrifice the richness of the ideas that make the philosophy of existentialism so engaging.’ – James Risser, Seattle University

Book Description

First published in 1990, Existentialism is widely regarded as a classic introductory survey of the topic, and has helped to renew interest in existentialist philosophy. Utilizing recently published primary sources, David E. Cooper provides a sy.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 232 pages
• Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell; 2 edition (June 28, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0631213236
• ISBN-13: 978-0631213239
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #858,050 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars ...Not for blokes...., May 11, 2001

By 

calcidius (Canada) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Existentialism: A Reconstruction (Introducing Philosophy) (Paperback)

David E. Cooper shows how many of the popular views on existentialism are actually misconceptions about the philosophy - this book is very helpful in dispelling the dictionary definition of existentialism. The idea that Existentialism is irrational or an anti-rational form of philosophy is shown to be an incorrect interpretation of what existential thought is about. Cooper shows that the existentialists where not against reason or rational thought but where really against a narrow form of rationalism -also empiricism- which attempted, through non-involvement in the human world, to gain a god-like perspective; a detached and impersonal view from nowhere within the world. Against this the existentialists wanted to show that we are all participants in human affairs and not mere spectators. Other misconceptions mentioned in the book were; that existentialism is just a phenomena born out of post-war Europe; that existentialism is a form of subjectivist philosophy; and that there was a large gulf between Sartre and Heidegger, Sartre -it is often claimed- was a Cartesian while Heidegger was Anti-Cartesian etc.. Some other misconceptions are also mentioned.

I thought the book was missing many of the insights from literature into existentialist thought -although some people will think that is a positive thing. Dostoevsky was not mentioned; I don't remember Kafkas great existential novels (the Trial or the Castle) coming up; and Camus is only mentioned long enough for us to see that he was neither philosophical or systematic and therefore not included. Cooper is not as hostile towards Camus as Sartre was in his review of the Rebel in Les Temps Modenes, but if you are a Camus fan you might want to look away. Of course every book has to make some cuts and Cooper does give reasons for his omissions.

I found the book very helpful and enjoyable, it would probably make a good introduction, but I wouldn't base all my opinions of the philosophy on it.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars The best of general introductions to Existentialism., October 8, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Existentialism: A Reconstruction (Paperback)

This is the best of all exisiting introductions to Existentialism in English, and perhaps any language. The clarity is not bogus. It is exemplary in the number of confusions it clears up. Existentialism is far from a passing post-war fad, and Cooper shows why, chapter after chapter. This is a book that should be on every philosophy student's reading list.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A coherent and detailed description of existentialism, July 8, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Existentialism: A Reconstruction (Paperback)

This is a detailed and interesting analysis of the underrated philosophy, existentialism. Dr. Cooper builds a coherent and useful philosophy from the writings of several diverse, and thoroughly vague, philosophers (focusing on the works of Kierkegaard, Heidegger, Nietzsche, and Sartre). Dr. Cooper does much to dissolve the common conception of existentialism as merely a cultural movement. Although somewhat awkwardly worded in places, it is a wonderful book that will most certainly not leave the reader unchanged (if nothing else it will change the readers opinion of the importance of existentialism in the overall history of philosophy).