Realism and Appearances
Realism and Appearances
This book addresses one of the fundamental topics in philosophy: the relation between appearance and reality. John Yolton draws on a rich combination of historical and contemporary material, ranging from the early modern period to present-day debates, to examine this central philosophical preoccupation, which he presents in terms of distinctions between phenomena and causes, causes and meaning, and persons and man. He explores in detail how Locke, Berkeley and Hume talk of appearances and their relation to reality, and offers illuminating connections and comparisons with the work of contemporary philosophers such as Paul Churchland and John McDowell. He concludes by offering his own proposal for a 'realism of appearances', which incorporates elements of both Humean and Kantian thinking. His important study will be of interest to a wide range of readers in the history of philosophy, the history of ideas, and contemporary philosophy of mind, epistemology and metaphysics.
- Yolton is the world's leading authority on Locke, and a distinguished philosopher in his own right
- Clearly and accessibly written
- Draws on a rich range of both historical and contemporary material
Product details
May 2000Hardback
9780521772273
172 pages
216 × 140 × 11 mm
0.34kg
Available
Table of Contents
- 1. Mind, matter and sense qualia
- 2. Causing and signifying
- 3. Actions and persons
- 4. Locke on the knowledge of things themselves
- 5. The notions of Berkeley's philosophy
- 6. Hume's appearances and the vocabulary of awareness
- 7. Hume's ontology
- Conclusion: realism of appearances.
