Ideas for the Philosophy of the History of Mankind

Johann Gottfried Herder

Ideas for the Philosophy of the History of Mankind
Format
Hardback
Publisher
Princeton University Press
Country
United States
Published
27 February 2024
Pages
792
ISBN
9780691147185

Ideas for the Philosophy of the History of Mankind

Johann Gottfried Herder

Published in four volumes between 1784 and 1791, Herder's Ideas for the Philosophy of the History of Mankind is one of the most important works of the Enlightenment - a bold, original and encyclopedic synthesis of, and contribution to, the era's philosophical debates over nature, history, culture, and the very meaning of human experience. This is the first new, unabridged English translation of the Ideas in more than two centuries. Gregory Martin Moore's lively, modern English text, extensive introduction, and commentary bring this neglected masterpiece back to life.

The Ideas - which engages with many of the leading thinkers of the eighteenth century, such as Montesquieu, Kant, Gibbon, Ferguson, Buffon, and Rousseau - is many things at once: an inquiry into the unity and purpose of history, a reflection on human nature and the place of humans in the cosmic order, an examination of what was beginning to be called 'culture', and a narrative of cultural progress across time among different peoples. Along the way, Herder considers a dizzying variety of topics, including the formation of the earth and solar system, species change, race, the immortality of the soul, the establishment of society, and the pursuit of happiness. Above all, the Ideas is an anthropology - what Alexander Pope had termed an 'essay on man' - pervaded by an appropriately humane spirit.

A fresh and much-needed modern translation of the complete Ideas, this volume reintroduces English readers to a classic of Enlightenment thought.

This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in approx 4 weeks

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.