Merleau-Ponty

Maurice Merleau-Ponty (1908-61) was a major twentieth-century philosopher whose theories of perception and the body have significantly impacted the humanities and social sciences. This introduction by Taylor Carman explores and evaluates his philosophy, covering key aspects such as perception, intentionality, the body, freedom, history, culture, and art. The second edition includes a new translation of Phenomenology of Perception and highlights Merleau-Ponty's critique of objective thought and his account of constrained freedom. It is an essential reading for students of phenomenology, existentialism, and twentieth-century philosophy, as well as for anyone interested in the humanities and social sciences.

Format: Hardback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 20 August 2019
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Maurice Merleau-Ponty, a pivotal figure in twentieth-century philosophy, left an indelible mark on the humanities and social sciences with his profound theories of perception and the significance of the body. While his contributions to phenomenology have been widely acknowledged, the true extent of his influence on philosophy as a whole is only now being fully recognized. In this comprehensive and insightful introduction, Taylor Carman delves into the depth and breadth of Merleau-Ponty's philosophy, providing a clear and concise account of his ideas.

Beginning with an overview of Merleau-Ponty's life and work, the book proceeds to explore fundamental aspects of his thought. Chapters delve into his philosophy of perception and intentionality, the role of the body in perception, freedom and our relationship with others, history and culture, and art, particularly the paintings of Cézanne. A final chapter examines Merleau-Ponty's relevance in the contemporary world, considering his philosophy in light of recent developments in philosophy of mind and cognitive science.

This second edition of Merleau-Ponty offers a fresh translation of his seminal work, Phenomenology of Perception. The new translation highlights Merleau-Ponty's critique of objective thought and his innovative account of constrained freedom, which serves as a counterpoint to Sartre's notion of radical choice. Additionally, the book includes annotated further reading and a glossary of key terms, making it an essential resource for students of phenomenology, existentialism, and twentieth-century philosophy. It is also a valuable introduction for anyone interested in exploring Merleau-Ponty's work within the humanities and social sciences.

In conclusion, Maurice Merleau-Ponty's philosophy is a testament to his profound understanding of the human experience and the complexities of the world. Taylor Carman's introduction provides a valuable entry point into his thought, allowing readers to explore the full range of his ideas and their enduring significance. Whether you are a student of philosophy or a scholar in the humanities and social sciences, Merleau-Ponty, Second Edition is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of this influential philosopher.

Weight: 640g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138689589
Edition number: 2 New edition