Man a Machine and Man a Plant

This book offers a modern translation of La Mettrie's influential works, exploring his radical ideas on materialism and human consciousness.

This volume presents a modern translation of La Mettrie's influential works, L'Homme machine and L'Homme plante, which were originally published in 1747 and 1748. These texts are foundational to the study of materialism and offer a radical perspective on human existence and consciousness. The book also includes translations of the advertisement and dedication related to L'Homme machine, providing additional context to La Mettrie's thought process.

In this translation, readers are introduced to La Mettrie's passionate advocacy for materialism, as he challenges the prevailing philosophical ideas of his time. Justin Leiber's insightful introduction highlights La Mettrie's relationships with key philosophical figures, including Descartes, Malebranche, and Locke. This analysis not only situates La Mettrie's work within the broader philosophical discourse but also emphasizes his significant impact on various fields, such as cognitive studies and linguistics.

Man a Machine and Man a Plant serves as an essential resource for anyone interested in the evolution of philosophical thought. By making these pioneering texts accessible to contemporary readers, the book invites a new generation to explore the profound implications of La Mettrie's ideas on the nature of humanity and the mind-body connection. The translation aims to preserve the original's intent while making it relevant for today's audience, ensuring that La Mettrie's legacy continues to inspire critical thought.