Pragmatism - William James

Concept of Nature by Alfred North Whitehead. In The Concept of Nature , Alfred North Whitehead discusses the interrelatedness of time, space, and human perception. The idea of objects as 'occasions of experience', arguments against body-mind duality and the search for an all-encompassing 'philosophy of nature' are examined, with specific reference to contemporary (Einstein, with whose theory of re...

Philosophy of Logical Atomism by Bertrand Russell. 'The Philosophy of Logical Atomism' is a series of lectures by Bertrand Russell (1872-1970) that touches on numerous topics, including the nature of propositions, the relations of propositions to facts and of different types of words to the varieties of things, what kinds of facts there are, existence, monism and pluralism, and aspects of philosop...

Some Turns of Thought in Modern Philosophy by George Santayana. Before the beginning of World War II, during the time of the Modernist movement in philosophy, George Santayana wrote these five descriptive essays. He examined John Locke’s sensationalism, British Idealism, the “Theory of Relativity”, Freud’s psychology, and Julien Benda’s preachment on the relations between God and the world. Featur...

History of Freedom of Thought by John Bagnell Bury. The great civil liberties we enjoy today, like Freedom of Speech and Freedom of the Press, have their foundation in Freedom of Thought. Without being able to freely explore all kinds of matter with an inquisitive mind, whether it be religious, political, societal, scientific, etc., any expression thereof is limited in and of itself. John Bagnell...

Selections from the Principles of Philosophy by René Descartes. The Principles of Philosophy, originally published in Latin in 1644, and translated to French in 1647, sets forth the principles of nature--the Laws of Physics--as Descartes viewed them. The book provides a systematic statement of natural philosophy and metaphysics, and represents the first truly comprehensive, mechanistic account of...

Religion and Science from Galileo to Bergson by John Charlton Hardwick. This history of Western philosophy, published in 1920, explores how people have explained the natural world during the last few centuries, whether by spiritual interpretation or through advances in science. From the Preface: "The chapters which follow are not intended as even a slight sketch of the history of Thought since the...

As a Man Thinketh by James Allen. Allen's books illustrate the use of the power of thought to increase personal capabilities. Although he never achieved great fame or wealth, his works continue to influence people around the world, including the New Thought movement. Allen's most famous book, As a Man Thinketh, was published in 1902. It is now considered a classic self-help book. Its underlying pr...

What I Believe by Bertrand Russell. Provides a brief indication of the beliefs of philosopher Bertrand Russell, focusing on his hopes for the future. The topics included are: nature and man, the good life, moral rules, individual and social salvation, and science and happiness. Featured on Pragmatism - William James. Public-domain recording courtesy of LibriVox (librivox.org). This episode include...

Thoughts Are Things by Prentice Mulford. Thoughts are Things, authored by Prentice Mulford, is one of the earliest books espousing New Thought teaching. This book contains information on how to better man's spiritual and physical life through the power of thought. Featured on Pragmatism - William James. Public-domain recording courtesy of LibriVox (librivox.org). This episode includes AI-generated...

American Philosophy Collection Vol. 1. This collection of articles in early 20th Century American philosophy focuses on the topics of realism, experience, and ideas, with particular attention to the pragmatic naturalism of John Dewey. In tracks 1-5, Dewey responds to critics of his famous article “The Postulate of Immediate Empiricism” (available in Short Nonfiction Collection Vol.034) . Tracks 6-...

American Philosophy Collection Vol. 2 by Various. This episode includes AI-generated content.

Some Problems of Philosophy by William James. This episode includes AI-generated content.

Essays in Radical Empiricism by William James. This episode includes AI-generated content.

"Pragmatism" by William James remains a vital exploration of philosophical thought, particularly in its emphasis on the practical implications of truth. Delivered through a series of engaging public lectures in Boston from 1906 to 1907, James critiques rationalism and other philosophical schools while championing a view of truth that is grounded in its utility for everyday life. He posits that tru...

"Animate and the Inanimate" by William James Sidis delves into the intricate relationship between living beings and the non-living world, exploring profound philosophical questions about existence and consciousness. Sidis, a prodigious thinker, invites listeners to reflect on the essence of life and the nature of reality, themes that remain relevant as we navigate an increasingly complex world. Th...

"Romance of a Mummy and Egypt" by Théophile Gautier invites listeners into a captivating exploration of love and mystique set against the backdrop of ancient Egypt. This narrative weaves together themes of romance and the allure of the past, showcasing how these timeless elements resonate with the human experience. Gautier's vivid imagery and poetic prose bring to life the wonders of a civilizatio...

Thomas Troward's "Edinburgh Lectures on Mental Science" delves into the profound relationship between thought and reality, exploring how our mental processes shape our experiences. Troward emphasizes the power of the mind and its ability to influence the world around us, presenting a compelling case for the importance of mental discipline and positive thinking. This timeless work resonates today a...

"Pragmatism" by William James remains a vital exploration of philosophical thought, particularly in its emphasis on the practical implications of truth. Delivered through a series of engaging public lectures in Boston from 1906 to 1907, James critiques rationalism and other philosophical schools while championing a view of truth that is grounded in its utility for everyday life. He posits that tru...

Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Aurelius Antoninus-Marcus Aurelius is a profound exploration of Stoic philosophy, offering insights into the nature of virtue, resilience, and the human experience. This timeless work reflects the inner thoughts of one of history's most revered leaders, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and moral integrity. Its themes of personal responsibility and the...

"On the Laws" by Marcus Tullius Cicero explores the fundamental principles of justice and governance, offering a profound examination of the relationship between law and morality. This enduring work delves into the nature of law as a reflection of universal truths, emphasizing the importance of rationality and ethical considerations in the creation and application of laws. Hearing Cicero's insight...

"Human Nature and Conduct" by John Dewey delves into the essential role of impulse in shaping human behavior. This exploration highlights the interplay between instinctual drives and societal influences, providing a framework for understanding the motivations behind our actions. Dewey's insights remain relevant today as they encourage listeners to reflect on the complexities of human nature and th...

"By Desert Ways to Baghdad" by Louisa Jebb Wilkins invites listeners on a captivating journey through the complexities of travel and exploration. This audiobook offers a vivid portrayal of the landscapes and cultures encountered along the way to Baghdad, highlighting the transformative power of adventure. The themes of resilience, curiosity, and the human spirit's quest for understanding remain ti...

"Bee-Keeping Do’s and Dont’s" by Tickner Edwardes offers essential guidance for both novice and experienced beekeepers, encapsulating the crucial practices and pitfalls in the art of apiculture. This audiobook provides listeners with timeless wisdom on how to successfully manage hives while avoiding common mistakes that can lead to failure. The insights shared in this work remain relevant today as...

"Studies in Pessimism" by Arthur Schopenhauer delves into the darker aspects of human existence, exploring the nature of suffering and the limitations of happiness. Schopenhauer presents a compelling argument about the inevitability of disappointment in life, prompting readers to confront the often-uncomfortable truths about their desires and aspirations. This philosophical work remains relevant t...

"Year with the Birds" by W. Warde Fowler invites listeners into a captivating exploration of avian life throughout the seasons. Through Fowler's keen observations and reflections, the book offers a timeless appreciation for nature and the intricate behaviors of birds, encouraging a deeper connection to the world around us. Its enduring themes of observation, mindfulness, and the beauty of the natu...