Philosophy of Mind in the Nineteenth Century

Book excerpt: Between the publication of Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason in 1781 and Husserl’s Ideas in 1913, the nineteenth century is a pivotal period in the philosophy of mind, witnessing the emergence of the phenomenological and analytical traditions which continue to shape philosophical debate in fundamental ways. The nineteenth century also challenged many prevailing assumptions about the transparency of the mind, particularly in the ideas of Nietzsche and Freud, whilst at the same time witnessing the birth of modern psychology in the work of William James. Covering the main figures of German idealism to the birth of the phenomenological movement under Brentano and Husserl, Philosophy of Mind in the Nineteenth Century provides an outstanding survey to these new directions in philosophy of mind. Following an introduction by Sandra Lapointe, fourteen specially commissioned chapters by an international team of contributors discuss key topics, thinkers and debates, including: German idealism Bolzano Johann Friedrich Herbart Ernst Mach Helmholtz Nietzsche William James Sigmund Freud Brentano’s early philosophy of mind Meinong Christian von Ehrenfels Husserl Natorp. Essential reading for students and researchers in philosophy of mind, continental philosophy, and the history of philosophy, Philosophy of Mind in the Nineteenth Century is also a valuable resource for those in related disciplines such as Psychology, Religion, and Literature.