The Persistent Problems of Philosophy

"The Persistent Problems of Philosophy" is an influential survey of Western philosophical thought, meticulously crafted to provide an introductory study of metaphysics through a critical examination of major systems and thinkers. Mary Whiton Calkins explores the fundamental questions regarding the nature of the self, the external world, and the absolute, guiding readers through the evolution of monism, pluralism, and idealism. By analyzing the core ideas of figures such as Descartes, Spinoza, Leibniz, Berkeley, Hume, Kant, and Hegel, the work offers a cohesive framework for understanding the complex metaphysical debates that have shaped intellectual history.

Renowned for its clarity and its distinct "personalistic" approach, this volume represents a significant milestone in American philosophy. Calkins focuses on the problems that have persistently occupied the minds of great thinkers, bridging the gap between historical systems and contemporary inquiry. This scholarly yet accessible work remains a foundational resource for students and scholars, providing deep insights into the quest for ultimate reality and the philosophical foundations of human experience. It stands as a testament to the enduring value of rigorous philosophical discourse.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.

This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.