Merleau-Ponty

Taylor Carman9780203461853, 0-203-46185-1, 0415339804, 9780415339803, 0415339812, 9780415339810

Maurice Merleau-Ponty (1908-1961) is one of the most important philosophers of the Twentieth century. His theories of perception and the role of the body have had an enormous impact on the humanities and social sciences, yet the full scope of his contribution not only to phenomenology but philosophy generally is only now becoming clear. In this lucid and comprehensive introduction, Taylor Carman explains and assesses the full range of Merleau-Ponty’s philosophy.

Beginning with an overview of Merleau-Ponty’s life and work, subsequent chapters cover fundamental aspects of Merleau-Ponty’s thought, including his philosophy of perception and intentionality; the role of the body in relation to perception; philosophy of history and culture; and his writings on art and aesthetics, particularly the work of Cezanne. A final chapter considers Merleau-Ponty’s importance today, examining his philosophy in light of recent developments in philosophy of mind and cognitive science.

Merleau-Ponty is essential reading for students of phenomenology, existentialism and Twentieth century philosophy. It is also ideal for anyone in the humanities and social sciences seeking an introduction to his work.

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Table of contents :
Book Cover……Page 1
Title……Page 4
Copyright……Page 5
Contents……Page 7
Acknowledgments……Page 9
Abbreviations……Page 10
Chronology……Page 11
Introduction……Page 14
One: Life and Works……Page 17
Two: Intentionality and Perception……Page 43
Three: Body and World……Page 91
Four: Self and Others……Page 148
Five: History and Politics……Page 164
Six: Vision and Style……Page 193
Seven: Legacy and Relevance……Page 226
Glossary……Page 244
Notes……Page 247
Bibliography……Page 261
Index……Page 271