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Relativism and Reality: A Contemporary Introduction
Author(s): Robert Kirk (Author)
- Publisher: Routledge
- Publication Date: June 24, 1999
- Language: English
- Print length: 204 pages
- ISBN-10: 0415208165
- ISBN-13: 9780415208161
Book Description
Our thoughts about the world are clearly influenced by such things as point of view, temperament, past experience and culture. However, some thinkers go much further and argue that everything that exists depends on us, arguing that 'even reality is relative'. Can we accept such a claim in the face of events such as floods and other natural disasters or events seemingly beyond our control? 'Realists' argue that reality is independent of out thinking. 'Relativists' disagree, arguing that what there is depends on our point of view. Which is right? Robert Kirk provides a crystal clear account of this debate from the Greek philosophers to Wittgenstein and Rorty. Along the way, he unpacks some of the more complicated issues surrounding ideas of objectivity, subjectivity, pragmatism and realism essential for those beginning any study of philosphy.
Editorial Reviews
Review
'Robert Kirk's short, readable, and engaging book provides an excellent introduction to the considerations that motivate relativism and the reasons they are not convincing' - Philosophical Review
About the Author
Robert Kirk is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Nottingham.
