Nothing
A Philosophical History
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Oxford University Press Inc
Published:12th May '22
Should be back in stock very soon
This engaging exploration details the historical and philosophical significance of nothingness, revealing how it has shaped human thought through the ages in Nothing.
In Nothing, Roy Sorensen explores the fascinating concept of absence, tracing its evolution from ancient philosophies to contemporary thought. The book delves into how the idea of nothingness has been perceived throughout history, revealing its complexity and significance. Sorensen discusses how thinkers from the Taoists and Buddhists to the ancient Greeks have grappled with the implications of nothingness, illustrating that what may appear as mere void can actually be a source of profound insight.
As the narrative unfolds, Nothing examines the ways in which the concept of absence has influenced major philosophical movements and ideas. Sorensen's engaging writing style makes complex philosophical discussions accessible, incorporating anecdotes and puzzles that invite readers to reflect on their own understanding of nothingness. The chronological structure of the book allows readers to appreciate the development of thought surrounding this elusive concept, leading up to modern existentialist perspectives.
Ultimately, Nothing serves as a thought-provoking exploration of how the absence of something can lead to the emergence of new ideas and insights. Sorensen's work challenges readers to reconsider the role of nothingness in shaping human thought and creativity, making it an engaging read for anyone interested in philosophy or the history of ideas.
Sorensen (Univ. of Texas at Austin; frequent visiting professor, St. Andrew's Univ., Scotland) has written a book that seeks above all to be comprehensive both geographically and chronologically. Spanning the ancient Greeks to today and traversing multiple cultures and thus multiple faith traditions, Nothing leaves no stone unturned in this survey of nonbeing. The text is not only informative but also entertaining; Sorensen's analysis is quite quippy at times...this book will provide a broad understanding of the meaning of absence. * Choice *
ISBN: 9780199742837
Dimensions: 203mm x 142mm x 36mm
Weight: 544g
368 pages