Philosophy in the American West: A Geography of Thought

Philosophy in the American West explores the physical, ecological, cultural, and narrative environments of the western United States, reflecting on the relationship between people and the places that sustain them. It pairs Continental Philosophy with writers, poets, and artists of the West, offering deep resources for thinking through the particularity of place.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Philosophy in the American West delves into the multifaceted physical, ecological, cultural, and narrative landscapes that shape the western United States, offering a profound exploration of the intricate relationship between humans and the environments that sustain them. The American West has long held a revered place in the hearts and minds of Americans, from the early observations of Crèvecoeurs in his Letters from an American Farmer (1782) to the profound reflections of Thoreau in Walden (1854). Throughout the centuries, the West has played a pivotal role in shaping the American narrative and in defining the American sense of self. However, while historians, sociologists, and novelists and poets have grappled with the nature of westernness, this collection represents the first attempt to engage in philosophical inquiry into the essence of the West and its profound influence on human existence.

The contributors to this collection take up thinkers who have been associated with Continental Philosophy and pair them with writers, poets, and artists of the West. By doing so, they seek to loosen the traditional ties between philosophy and Europe, while harnessing the rich resources of continental philosophy to delve into the unique characteristics of place. Phenomenology, hermeneutics, deconstruction, and other philosophical traditions offer valuable tools for understanding the complexities of the West and its impact on human consciousness.

This book will appeal to students and scholars of Philosophy, as well as those engaged in Ecocriticism and the Environmental Humanities more broadly. It provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the philosophical dimensions of the American West, shedding light on the complex interplay between human beings, nature, and the built environment. Through its insightful analysis and engaging narratives, Philosophy in the American West offers a fresh perspective on the enduring significance of this region and its profound impact on the world.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367512552