My Philosophical Development

A clear and engaging written account of Russell's intellectual development, from young idealist to celebrated sceptic. This Routledge Classics edition includes a new foreword by Nicholas Griffin and is an ideal companion to Russell's own Autobiography.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 258 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Here is the rephrased text:

Russell's intellectual journey is intricately explored in this captivating book, penned by the master himself. Through clear and engaging writing, the author charts his intellectual development, from a young idealist to a celebrated sceptic. This Routledge Classics edition features a new foreword by Nicholas Griffin, making it an ideal companion to Russell's own Autobiography, which delves into his remarkable and colorful life rather than solely focusing on philosophy.

Russell's early years were marked by his unwavering belief in the power of reason and his commitment to social reform. He was deeply influenced by the ideas of John Stuart Mill and Herbert Spencer, and he embraced the Enlightenment's belief in progress and human potential. However, as Russell grew older, his philosophical outlook began to evolve.

He became increasingly skeptical of traditional religious beliefs and the authority of the state. He questioned the validity of scientific theories and the objectivity of scientific methods. Russell's skepticism extended to his own beliefs, and he began to doubt the certainty of his own knowledge and understanding.

This shift in perspective led Russell to develop his own unique brand of philosophy, known as logical positivism. Logical positivism was a philosophical movement that emphasized the importance of empirical evidence and the scientific method in understanding the world. Russell believed that only statements that could be verified through empirical evidence were true, and that all other statements were false or meaningless.

Russell's logical positivism had a profound impact on the development of modern philosophy. He challenged the traditional philosophical assumptions that had been prevalent for centuries and paved the way for new approaches to understanding the world. His ideas influenced a generation of philosophers, including Ludwig Wittgenstein, Bertrand Russell, and Alfred North Whitehead, and they continue to be studied and debated today.

In addition to his philosophical contributions, Russell was also a prominent political figure and social activist. He was a member of the British Parliament and played a key role in shaping British policy during World War I. Russell was also a vocal opponent of fascism and **** Germany, and he worked to promote peace and democracy throughout the world.

Russell's life and work are a testament to his intellectual curiosity, his commitment to social reform, and his dedication to promoting peace and democracy. This book provides a superb insight into the development of Russell's thinking, and it is an essential read for anyone interested in philosophy, politics, or social change.

Weight: 358g
Dimension: 139 x 216 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032312309