Kant: The Three Critiques

Classic Thinkers (Thinkers)

by Andrew Ward

Immanuel Kants three critiques the Critique of Pure Reason, the Critique of Practical Reason and the Critique of Judgment are among the pinnacles of Western Philosophy. This accessible study grounds Kants philosophical position in the context of his intellectual influences, most notably against the background of the scepticism and empiricism of David Hume. It is an ideal critical introduction to Kants views in the key areas of knowledge and metaphysics; morality and freedom; and beauty and design. By examining the Kantian system in the light of contemporary arguments, Ward brings the structure and force of Kants Copernican Revolution in Philosophy into sharp focus. Kant is often misrepresented as a somewhat dry thinker, yet the clarity of Wards exposition of his main themes, science, morality and aesthetics, through the three critiques brings his writings and theories to life. Lucidly and persuasively written, this book will be a valuable resource for students and scholars seeking to understand Kants immense influence.

Genres: Philosophy

253 pages, Paperback

First published June 30, 2006

Reviews

[Talha Koseoglu · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wouldn't say it is a good start to Kant. It is rather a book which may help you getting the basic ideas in Kant's three major works or Critiques (of Pure Reason, of Practical Reason, and of Judgement). So if you want to learn about Kant but not want to bother yourself reading all the way, this may be the right book. Ward's explanations are not loaded with complex terminology, he doesn't assume that you know what Kant means when he says, for example, "antinomies of reason". His style is a bit repetitious but I didn't mind, maybe I even liked it in this way. Ward also gives space to criticisms raised against Kant after he explains Kant's original point, and eventually speculate on how Kant would reply to his critics (and sometimes Ward himself defends Kant against them). The book is, in a sense, dialectical in style which makes it easier to follow. One last point I liked about the book is Ward's extensive comparisons of Kant with Hume, and also sometimes with rationalists. This allows contextualizing Kant's "Copernican revolution" amidst philosophical debates of his time.