This is a very readable history of modern philosophy (not the history of ideas, though some of those ideas are discussed). With only 300 pp. of space available there are some names which are given shorter shrift than some readers might like. For example, there are some who would want much more on Thomas Reid or on W.V.O. Quine. Most of the major names are represented, the bookend figures (both spatially and intellectually) being Descartes and Wittgenstein.
The book is as lucid as Scruton can make it. He throws up his hands (figuratively) in some cases, arguing that Hegel and Heidegger, e.g., can be very difficult to understand. In general, this is not a book for the general reader. Nor is it a book for the deeply-rooted specialist. He does not use diagrams, pictures or colorful illustrative examples, as some introductory guides do. This is straight history for those with more than a passing familiarity with the subject. On the other hand, it is written with urgency as he takes us from figure to figure, noting prior influences (some of which skip generations). There is actual drama within the narrative as he heads toward Wittgenstein.
I note that RS is often identified as a ‘conservative’ philosopher, but he writes with fairness and objectivity. His disagreements are philosophic rather than political or religious and he apportions praise and (a little) blame based on the thinker’s philosophic depth and acuity.
He speaks about the different senses of ‘modern philosophy’, noting that some do not think we get truly modern philosophy until the twentieth century. I found his tracing of the long shadows of Cartesianism particularly telling and his discussion of Wittgenstein’s concept of the ‘language game’ very lucid.
I have read several of Scruton’s other books and have enjoyed them, particularly his Intelligent Person’s Guide to Modern Culture and his recent book, The Soul of the World. His work repays attention.
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A Short History of Modern Philosophy: From Descartes to Wittgenstein
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Linda
it was in good condition and I received it quickly
Reviewed in Canada on October 29, 2020
jayteesea
Clarity of explanation of philosophical ideas
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 5, 2020André Câmara F. da Costa
It delivers what it promises!
Reviewed in Germany on February 13, 2016