From American Empire to America Cosmica through Philosophy: Prospero's Reflection

Prospero's Reflection envisions a greater ideal American philosophy that integrates philosophies from across the Americas and seeks to resolve the problems of the peoples of the Americas. Terrance MacMullan delves into the points of philosophical contention and misrecognition between Anglo-American and Ibero-American philosophies, arguing that the United States will never achieve democratic community unless it first contends with the critiques of its culture and philosophies reflected within the works of Latin American philosophers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 270 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

From the American Empire to América Cósmica, a philosophical journey unfolds, envisioning a greater ideal American philosophy that embraces the rich tapestry of philosophies across the Americas. This visionary endeavor aims to address the pressing concerns that afflict the people of the Americas, contributing to the rapidly expanding dialogue on Inter-American philosophy. Through meticulous research, this work adds to the growing list of philosophical affinities across the Americas, enriching our understanding of the philosophical landscape.

However, Terrance MacMullan takes us on a profound exploration, delving into the points of philosophical contention and misrecognition that exist between Anglo-American and Ibero-American philosophies. By reversing the colonial gaze of the past centuries, MacMullan offers a fresh perspective, challenging the prevailing narratives. In the spirit of cultural theorists like Enrique Rodó and Roberto Fernández Retamar, who draw upon Shakespeares The Tempest as a rich source of literary metaphors to understand colonialism and imperialism in the Americas, MacMullan argues that the United States cannot attain democratic community unless it confronts the harsh critiques of its culture and philosophies reflected within the works of Latin American philosophers. These philosophers, who prophesied and survived the imperialism of the North American Prospero, have left a profound legacy, yet their works remain largely unknown and unseen within U.S. universities.

Through his profound analysis, MacMullan invites us to reimagine the American philosophical landscape, embracing the diversity of thought that exists across the Americas. He encourages us to engage with the rich tapestry of ideas and perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of our shared history and the challenges we face in the present. This book is a testament to the power of philosophy to bridge gaps, promote dialogue, and shape a more inclusive and equitable world.

Weight: 585g
Dimension: 237 x 159 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793653741