William James

William James (1842-1910) was a founder of psychology and a thinker who sought to work across conventional boundaries. He was interested in the moments when thoughts suddenly come into being, hot and alive. This book discusses James' life-writing, which combines literature, psychology, philosophy, and biography to search for purpose and human flourishing. It also includes James' interest in his brother's novels and Shakespearean drama, as well as Thomas Hardy's pessimistic challenge to James. Davis is a reader of literature who believes that readers of novels and poems also need the help of psychology and philosophy to get the thinking out and make it into a working part of a life.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

William James, the elder brother of renowned novelist Henry James, played a pivotal role in the founding of psychology. However, he was a thinker who transcended conventional boundaries and rejected the notion of separate disciplines or over-professionalized ways of thinking. James's primary interest lay in capturing the fleeting moments when thoughts emerge, vibrant and alive. This book resonates with individuals who have personally grappled with the desire for such introspective thinking and revel in the exhilaration of ideas.

James's life-writing, driven by a quest for purpose and human flourishing, seamlessly blends literature, psychology, philosophy, and biography. It explores his fascination with his brother's novels, Shakespearean drama, and Thomas Hardy's pessimistic challenge. Davis, a reader of literature, believes that readers of novels and poems also require the assistance of psychology and philosophy to unlock their full potential and integrate their thinking into their daily lives.

This book is particularly aimed at readers, especially those who have a deep appreciation for literature, who aspire to create a literary way of thinking that extends beyond the realm of literature. By drawing upon the insights of William James and other thinkers, Davis offers a roadmap for individuals to explore their inner lives, cultivate meaningful connections, and find fulfillment in their personal and intellectual pursuits.

Weight: 366g
Dimension: 144 x 222 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192847324