Originally given in 1953 as the Adamson Lecture at Manchester University, On Philosophical Style has become the classic presentation of the thesis that profundity and clarity are not opposed philosophical virtues but rather required companions. Blanshard begins with the question: Why is it that philosophers of great perception sometimes confess a failure to comprehend certain of their colleagues? He ends with the assertion "that the problem of style is not a problem of words and sentences merely, but of being the right kind of mine." In between, there is much offered, in fine style and short compass, for those who both write and read philosophy.
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"In these few pages, Professor Blanshard has said the last word on style in philosophy. The reader is expertly conducted on a tour of inspection of all relevant areas, in and out of philosophy proper." (Virgil C. Aldrich, The Journal of Philosophy)
"Everything he says may be said about writing in general, and that some philosophers - or at least one - can write clearly, rhythmically, and profoundly is proven by the author himself." (John J. Kessler, The Humanist)
"Notable as probably the first book specifically on this subject by a distinguished philosopher." -- Bibliographie de la Philosophie
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12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Top-notch advice from a master of philosophical prose style,
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This review is from: On Philosophical Style (Hardcover)
Brand Blanshard's prose style was itself a seamless implementation of the content of his philosophy: intelligible, clear, precise, and invariably suffused by what he called the "rational temper." In this book (really an extended essay) he offers helpful advice to would-be writers of philosophical prose -- advice that he had more than earned the right to give.
This single volume, if its advice were heeded, would have spared us the dark cogitations of many an obfuscatory philosopher and left the field of philosophy in the hands of those who had something to say. Those who are impressed by the bold pronouncements of Nietzsche, Kierkegaard and Wittgenstein will find little solace here, but anyone who expects philosophers actually to love wisdom will be delighted to encounter a kindred spirit. Read it not only to profit from its advice on prose style but also to absorb something of the spirit of twentieth century philosophy's greatest exemplar of reasonableness.
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Masterpiece on Writing,
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This review is from: On Philosophical Style (Key Texts) (Paperback)
Brand Blanshard was one of the great philosophers of the 20th century, now badly neglected. His "On Philosophical Style" is a gem about how to write well, namely, how to think well. I used it for many years in philosophy courses.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Advice from a Master,
This review is from: On Philosophical Style (Paperback)
Blanshard, an eminent American philosopher and a master of philosophic prose, offers sage advice to budding writers in this little book. Blanshard is a charming and gracious guide who reminds his readers that consideration for others is vital in writing as in life. Do read this book. You'll be glad you made the author's acquaintance.
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