Problems in philosophy: the limits of inquiry
Oxford, 1993
Abstract
Problems in Philosophy is a critical introduction to philosophy. The author offers a synoptic view of philosophical inquiry, discussing such topics as reason and truth, consciousness, the self, meaning, free will, the a priori, and knowledge. The emphasis is on the fundamental intractability of these issues, and a theory is proposed as to why the human mind has so much difficulty resolving them.
Quotes from this work
It is by no means inconceivable that the special character of our art and our personal relationships depends upon the cognitive biases and limits that prevent us handling philosophical problems, so that philosophical aptitude would deprive our lives of much of their point. Philosophy might require even more self-sacrifice than has traditionally been conceded.