Continental Philosophy: A Very Short Introduction

Continental Philosophy: A Very Short Introduction

Simon Critchley's Very Short Introduction shows that Continental philosophy encompasses a distinct set of philosophical traditions and practices, with a compelling range of problems all too often ignored by the analytic tradition. He discusses the ideas and approaches of philosophers such as Kant, Hegel, Nietzsche, Husserl, Heidegger, Sartre, Habermas, Foucault, and Derrida, and introduces key concepts such as existentialism, nihilism, and phenomenology by explaining their place in the Continental tradition. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.
Sign up to use

Reviews

Photo of Rachel Prudden
Rachel Prudden@stubborncurias
4 stars
Sep 14, 2021

I found this an extremely useful introduction to the history and major ideas within "continental" philosophy. Some ideas I found helpful: - that continental philosophy is best seen as a network of texts in dialogue with one another, rather than addressing a set of problems directly - the idea of revolutionary tradition, or forcing a crisis, based on re-activating a heritage which has hardened and become habitual - that Nietzsche saw nihilism as generated by a contradiction within Christian/Platonic metaphysics, rather than an external challenge (I was reminded of Gödel) The downside was that I found the author's attitude towards scientists almost ludicrously patronizing. If I understand his view he sees science (which he conflates with mathematics and technology) as operating under a fixed set of principles, namely the logical positivism of the early 20th century. He does not grant science, or by extension scientists, the capacity for methodological self-awareness or multiplicity of approaches that are assumed to be the exclusive domain of philosophy. This is disappointing, as I think there is an interesting discussion to be had - but the treatment here is very superficial. Besides that irritation, it's a concise and thought-provoking survey. Overall, highly recommended.

Photo of Roel Vandenhoeck
Roel Vandenhoeck@rovan
2 stars
Aug 31, 2022
Photo of Mirella Hetekivi
Mirella Hetekivi@euphoricdopamine
4 stars
May 24, 2022
Photo of Christian Rotzoll
Christian Rotzoll@rtzll
3 stars
Sep 14, 2021