World Soul: A History

The concept of a world soul has been widely held by philosophers and scientists throughout history, but it is difficult to understand due to its varying interpretations and applications. This volume explores the various ways in which this concept has been understood and employed, covering Platonism, Stoicism, Medieval, Indian or Vedântic, Kabbalah, Renaissance, Early Modern, German Romanticism, German Idealism, American Transcendentalism, and contemporary quantum mechanics and panpsychism theories. Short reflections also illuminate its impact on areas outside of philosophy, such as harmony, the biological concept of spontaneous generation, Henry Purcell, psychoanalysis, and Gaia theories.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 408 pages
Publication date: 29 September 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Over the course of history, numerous philosophers and scientists have posited that the world possesses a living essence, characterized by a soul that governs and unites it. This notion, once widely accepted, may now appear peculiar and outdated to many, evoking a sense of detachment from our philosophical heritage. However, the concept of a world soul has exerted a profound influence on philosophers' imaginations for over two millennia, shaping our understanding of time and space.

The notion of the world soul is intricate and challenging to comprehend, primarily due to its diverse interpretations and applications across different ontologies and philosophical systems throughout history. As a result, various concepts of the world soul have emerged, each with its unique perspective. This volume, comprising eleven chapters authored by esteemed philosophers in their respective fields, aims to explore the multifaceted ways in which the world soul has been understood and employed. These chapters cover a wide range of philosophical areas, including Platonism, Stoicism, Medieval, Indian or Vedântic, Kabbalah, Renaissance, Early Modern, German Romanticism, German Idealism, American Transcendentalism, and contemporary quantum mechanics and panpsychism theories.

In addition to these comprehensive chapters, short reflections provide insights into the broader impact of the world soul concept on various fields beyond philosophy. These areas include harmony, the biological concept of spontaneous generation, Henry Purcell, psychoanalysis, and Gaia theories. By examining these diverse perspectives, the volume offers a comprehensive exploration of the enduring significance of the world soul idea in shaping our understanding of the world and our place within it.

Weight: 472g
Dimension: 169 x 250 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190913434