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Samantha Matherne

Cassirer

Cassirer

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Ernst Cassirer (1874-1945) was a 20th-century philosopher who believed that human beings are not rational but symbolic animals. He had a famous dispute with Martin Heidegger at Davos in 1929. This introduction by Samantha Matherne examines and assesses Cassirer's work, covering his neo-Kantian background, philosophy of mathematics and natural science, cultural philosophy, ethical and political thought, and diagnosis of fascism. It is an ideal introduction to Cassirer's thought for anyone coming to his work for the first time, and is essential reading for students in philosophy and related disciplines.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 26 April 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd


Ernst Cassirer (1874–1945) holds a distinct position in the realm of 20th-century philosophy. His assertion that human beings are not merely rational but symbolic animals, coupled with his renowned debate with Martin Heidegger at Davos in 1929, presents compelling alternatives to the stalemate between the analytic and continental approaches to philosophy. A remarkable polymath, Cassirer's work encompasses mathematics, natural science, art, language, myth, religion, technology, and history, with equal attention paid to each field. Regrettably, until now, his profound contributions have largely been overlooked.

In this exceptional introduction, Samantha Matherne delves into and evaluates the comprehensive range of Cassirer's work. Beginning with an overview of his life and achievements, she proceeds to cover the following significant topics:

Cassirer's neo-Kantian background: Matherne explores Cassirer's philosophical roots, tracing his influences from Kant and other neo-Kantian thinkers.

Philosophy of mathematics and natural science: Matherne examines Cassirer's systematic work, Substance and Function, and his subsequent contributions, such as his analysis of Einstein's Theory of Relativity.

The problem of culture: Cassirer's groundbreaking work, The Philosophy of Symbolic Forms, explores the relationship between culture and human nature.

Cassirer's ethical and political thought: Matherne explores Cassirer's ethical and political ideas, including his critique of fascism in The Myth of the State.

Cassirer's influence and legacy: Matherne discusses Cassirer's impact on philosophy and his influence on various disciplines, such as intellectual history, art history, politics, and literature.

The introduction includes chapter summaries, suggestions for further reading, and a glossary of terms, making it an ideal entry point for individuals approaching Cassirer's thought for the first time. It is also an essential resource for students studying philosophy and related fields, such as intellectual history, art history, politics, and literature.

Weight: 380g
Dimension: 138 x 215 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138827509

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