One Hundred Twentieth-Century Philosophers

One Hundred Twentieth-Century Philosophers offers biographical information and critical analysis of the life, work and impact of some of the most significant figures in philosophy this century. Taken from the acclaimed Biographical Dictionary of Twentieth-Century Philosophers, the 100 entries are alphabetically organized, from Adorno to Zhang Binglin, and cover individuals from both continental and analytic philosophy. The entries have an identical four-part structure making it easy to compare and contrast information, comprising of biographical details, a bibliography of major works, a listing of relevant secondary and critical literature, and an appraisal of the philosopher's thoughts and achievements. A seperate glossary provides an introduction to the origins, development and main features of major philosophical schools and movements and offers select bibliographies to guide the reader to further research.

From Adorno to Zhang Binglin and absolute idealism to vitalism, One Hundred Twentieth-Century Philosophers presents the major individuals and schools of thought with depth and clarity. For each philosopher in the alphabetically arranged compilation, the authors provide bibliographic statistics (years lived, where born, and philosophical influences, where educated, appointments and positions, honors, and main publications). This thumbnail sketch is then followed by a lucid summary and astute analysis of the philosopher's development, career, and contributions. An excellent, scholarly reference for any student of philosophy, its text is also conducive to browsing. Flipping through the I's reveals that Roman Ingarden (1893-1970, Cracow, Poland) asked interesting phenomenological questions on the interaction between idealism-realism and works of art, while Luce Irigaray (b. 1930, Blaton, Belgium), feminist philosopher and psychoanalyst, has caused controversy with her focus on sexual bias in language, civil rights, and philosophy. Adhering to rigorous academic and prose standards, this encyclopedia of 20th-century philosophers is a worthy supplement to one's reference library. --Stephanie Gold