Profitable Speculations: Essays on Current Philosophical Themes

In this important collection, distinguished philosopher Nicholas Rescher explores a variety of issues significant to contemporary philosophers. The essays fall into three interrelated groups. The first group surveys key aspects of the recent scene in philosophy in a retrospective mood that is appropriate as the century nears its close. The second group is a critical examination (both historical and systemic) of a conception— that of 'possible worlds'— which has played an important formative role in 20th century philosophy. The final group presents some philosophical reflections on the human condition viewed from the vantage point of concepts (collectivity, technology, complexity, chance, and rationality) which 20th century philosophy has placed in the foreground of philosophical concern. Varied yet cohesive, these reflections on issues of contemporary philosophy are important reading for anyone interested in the state and direction of the discipline.