Title
Metaphysical Horror,New
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For over a century, philosophers have argued that philosophy is impossible or useless, or both. Although the basic notion dates back to the days of Socrates, there is still heated disagreement about the nature of truth, reality, knowledge, the good, and God. This may make little practical difference to our lives, but it leaves us with a feeling of radical uncertainty, a feeling described by Kolakowski as 'metaphysical horror.' 'The horror is this,' he says, 'if nothing truly exists except the Absolute, the Absolute is nothing; if nothing truly exists except myself, I am nothing.' The aim of this book, for Kolakowski, is finding a way out of this seeming dead end.In a trenchant analysis that serves as an introduction to nearly all of Western philosophy, Kolakowski confronts these dilemmas head on through examinations of several prominent philosophers including Descartes, Spinoza, Husserl, and many of the NeoPlatonists. He finds that philosophy may not provide definitive answers to the fundamental questions, yet the quest itself transforms our lives. It may undermine most of our certainties, yet it still leaves room for our spiritual yearnings and religious beliefs.The final sentence of the book captures the hopefulness that has survived the horror of nothingness when Kolakowski asks: 'Is it not reasonable to suspect that if existence were pointless and the universe devoid of meaning, we would never have achieved not only the ability to imagine otherwise, but even the ability to entertain this very thoughtto wit, that existence is pointless and the universe devoid of meaning?' The answer, of course, is clear. Now it is up to readers to take up the challenge of his arguments.
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- Q: What is the main theme of 'Metaphysical Horror'? A: The main theme of 'Metaphysical Horror' revolves around philosophical dilemmas regarding truth, reality, knowledge, and existence, as well as the emotional impact of these uncertainties.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Metaphysical Horror'? A: The author of 'Metaphysical Horror' is Leszek Kolakowski, a prominent philosopher known for his analyses of Western philosophy.
- Q: What can readers expect from the book's content? A: Readers can expect a thorough examination of key philosophical figures such as Descartes, Spinoza, and Husserl, as well as insights into how philosophy challenges our certainties while addressing spiritual yearnings.
- Q: How long is 'Metaphysical Horror'? A: 'Metaphysical Horror' contains 135 pages, providing a concise yet profound exploration of its themes.
- Q: What is the publication date of the book? A: 'Metaphysical Horror' was published on July 1, 2001.
- Q: Is this book suitable for those new to philosophy? A: Yes, 'Metaphysical Horror' serves as an introduction to Western philosophy and is suitable for readers who are new to the subject.
- Q: What format is 'Metaphysical Horror' available in? A: 'Metaphysical Horror' is available in paperback format.
- Q: What condition is the book in? A: 'Metaphysical Horror' is sold in new condition.
- Q: What philosophical issues does Kolakowski address in the book? A: Kolakowski addresses issues related to existence, meaning, and the nature of reality, highlighting the feelings of uncertainty in philosophical inquiry.
- Q: What is the significance of the book's title, 'Metaphysical Horror'? A: The title 'Metaphysical Horror' reflects the deep existential fears and uncertainties that arise from philosophical inquiry into the nature of existence and meaning.