Heidegger: A Very Short Introduction

Heidegger: A Very Short Introduction provides an overview of one of the most influential philosophers of the 20th century. The book examines Martin Heidegger's key concepts and ideas through clear explanations and historical context. The text covers Heidegger's major work Being and Time as well as his later philosophical developments. It explores his theories about human existence, technology, art, and truth while addressing the controversy surrounding his involvement with National Socialism. Inwood presents complex philosophical arguments in accessible language without oversimplifying the material. The book includes biographical details and explains how Heidegger's ideas evolved throughout his career. This introduction serves as both a primer for newcomers and a useful reference for those familiar with Heidegger's work. The text illuminates how Heidegger's philosophy continues to impact modern thought about authenticity, being, and humanity's relationship with technology.

Readers find this book provides a clear entry point to Heidegger's complex ideas. Multiple reviewers note Inwood breaks down difficult concepts into digestible sections while maintaining philosophical rigor. Liked: - Clear explanations of Heidegger's terminology - Helpful chapter organization - Strong coverage of Being and Time - Useful glossary and references Disliked: - Too dense for complete beginners - Some sections feel rushed - Limited coverage of Heidegger's later work - Technical language can still be challenging One reader on Goodreads wrote: "Inwood manages to explain Heidegger without oversimplifying him." An Amazon reviewer noted: "The glossary alone is worth the price." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (289 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (102 ratings) LibraryThing: 3.8/5 (21 ratings) The book ranks in the middle range of VSI series ratings, with readers considering it more technical than other philosophy entries in the series.

Being and Time by Martin Heidegger This foundational text presents Heidegger's complete philosophical system and core ideas about human existence, temporality, and being-in-the-world.

Introduction to Phenomenology by Robert Sokolowski This text explains the philosophical method that influenced Heidegger through an examination of consciousness, perception, and human experience.

The Cambridge Companion to Heidegger by Charles Guignon This collection of essays from scholars examines Heidegger's key concepts, historical context, and influence on philosophy, technology, and art.

Basic Writings by Martin Heidegger, David Farrell Krell This curated selection of Heidegger's essential writings provides access to his thoughts on technology, language, truth, and being.

German Philosophy 1760-1860: The Legacy of Idealism by Terry Pinkard This work traces the philosophical developments that preceded and influenced Heidegger's thinking through figures like Kant, Hegel, and Schelling.

🔷 Prior to teaching philosophy, Martin Heidegger trained to become a Jesuit priest but was dismissed from the seminary due to heart problems. 🔷 Michael Inwood, the book's author, is renowned for creating the "Heidegger Dictionary" - one of the most comprehensive guides to Heidegger's complex terminology and philosophical concepts. 🔷 Heidegger's masterwork "Being and Time" (1927) was written in just a few months, despite its massive scope and revolutionary philosophical concepts. 🔷 The German word "Dasein," central to Heidegger's philosophy, has no exact English equivalent but roughly translates to "being-there" or "existence." Before Heidegger, it was simply the common German word for existence. 🔷 Despite his controversial Nazi affiliations, Heidegger's philosophical influence extends far beyond Western thought - his work has significantly impacted Japanese philosophy and the Kyoto School.