The Dialogues of Francois Hemsterhuis, 1778-1787

The first English translation of Francois Hemsterhuis' late dialogues, which became entangled in contemporary philosophical debates in Germany, is presented here. These dialogues explore non-materialist philosophy, including epistemology, the existence of God, order and chaos, ethics, and aesthetics. Two editorial introductions provide insight into Hemsterhuis' relationship with Amelia Gallitzin and the influence of these texts on Holderlin's Hyperion and Novalis.

Format: Hardback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Francois Hemsterhuis' late dialogues, which have become deeply intertwined in contemporary philosophical debates in Germany, are now presented in their first English translation. These four published dialogues offer a diverse exploration of non-materialist philosophy. In Sophylus, Hemsterhuis aims to establish the fundamental epistemological frameworks that he believes are compatible with common sense, Socratic inquiry, and Newtonian science. Aristeaus is a captivating series of reflections on arguments for the existence of God, concepts of order and chaos in the universe. Simon closely resembles Plato's Symposium in style, structure, and content, providing the most explicit statement of Hemsterhuis' late ethics and aesthetics. Finally, Alexis, the beloved work of many German Romantics, employs contemporary discussions of astronomy and optics to formulate a mythic ode to the role of enthusiasm and feeling in the constitution of wisdom.

To complement these translations, two editorial introductions have been included. The first, by Daniel Whistler, delves into Hemsterhuis' relationship with Amelia Gallitzin and its profound influence on his philosophical development, ultimately shaping what he referred to as "our philosophy." The second, by Laure Cahen-Maurel, examines the role played by Jacobi and others in the transmission of these texts and their profound impact on Holderlin's Hyperion and Novalis' Hemsterhuis-Studies, in particular.

Through these dialogues, readers are invited to engage with Hemsterhuis' thought-provoking ideas and explore the rich tapestry of non-materialist philosophy, which continues to inspire and provoke intellectual inquiry today.

Weight: 428g
Dimension: 164 x 243 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474488082