A History of Philosophy, Volume 7: Modern Philosophy: From the Post-Kantian Idealists to Marx, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche

This volume explores post-Kantian philosophy through the nineteenth century, focusing on German Idealism and its aftermath. The text examines key philosophers including Fichte, Schelling, Hegel, Marx, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche. The book follows a chronological progression through various philosophical movements and schools of thought, detailing how each thinker responded to and built upon previous ideas. Copleston provides historical context for each philosopher's work while explaining their central arguments and contributions to the field. The analysis moves from absolute idealism through to materialism and existentialism, tracking the major shifts in European philosophical thought during this period. The work includes detailed discussions of both major and minor figures who influenced the development of modern philosophy. This volume represents a crucial bridge between Kantian philosophy and twentieth-century thought, demonstrating the evolution of ideas that would shape modern philosophical discourse. The text reveals the complex interplay between rationalism, materialism, and early existentialist thinking that characterized this transformative period in philosophy.

Readers appreciate Copleston's clear explanations of complex philosophical concepts and his systematic approach to covering post-Kantian thought. Many note his ability to connect different philosophers' ideas and show their relationships. Strengths cited: - Detailed coverage of German Idealism - Strong sections on Hegel and Marx - Clear writing despite difficult subject matter - Helpful historical context provided Main criticisms: - Dense academic writing style can be challenging - Some sections feel rushed or incomplete - Limited coverage of lesser-known philosophers - High price for print editions Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (127 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (31 ratings) One reviewer on Amazon noted: "Copleston presents complex philosophical systems with remarkable clarity without oversimplifying." A Goodreads reviewer criticized: "The Kierkegaard section could have been more thorough given his influence." The book is frequently assigned in university philosophy courses and recommended by professors for graduate study preparation.

Nineteenth-Century Philosophy by Stephen Priest This work presents the major philosophical developments from Hegel through Marx and Nietzsche with connections to the broader cultural and political movements of the time.

From Kant to Nietzsche by E.F. Sedgwick and H.A. Collins The text traces the progression of German philosophy through its most influential period with emphasis on the interconnections between key thinkers and their theories.

German Philosophy 1760-1860: The Legacy of Idealism by Terry Pinkard The book examines the development of German Idealism from its roots through its transformation in the works of later philosophers who shaped modern thought.

Young Hegelians by William J. Brazill This work focuses on the philosophical movement that emerged from Hegel's teachings and influenced both Marx and Kierkegaard.

The Story of Philosophy by Will Durant The text provides comprehensive coverage of major philosophical figures from Plato to Nietzsche with particular depth in the modern German philosophical tradition.

🔹 Frederick Copleston was a Jesuit priest who originally wrote his nine-volume history of philosophy as a teaching aid for Catholic seminary students, but it became one of the most comprehensive and respected philosophical reference works of the 20th century. 🔹 Volume 7 covers what is often considered the "Golden Age" of German philosophy, examining how philosophers like Hegel, Schopenhauer, and Marx developed their ideas in direct response to Kant's revolutionary work. 🔹 Copleston wrote all nine volumes of his history while maintaining his teaching duties at Heythrop College, often working late into the night and completing the entire series over a span of about 20 years. 🔹 The book provides unique insight into Kierkegaard's religious philosophy, with Copleston's background as a Jesuit priest offering a distinctive perspective on the Danish philosopher's complex relationship with Christianity. 🔹 Despite being written in the 1960s, this volume remains particularly relevant today as it explores Marx's theories during the Cold War period, offering a balanced analysis that avoided the intense political biases common during that era.