Johann Georg Hamann: An Existentialist

by Walter Lowrie

Johann Georg Hamann

Genres: Philosophy

44 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1950

Reviews

[Adam Carnehl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally published under "Princeton Pamphlets - No. 6" in 1950, this little booklet has found new life because of Wipf & Stock's project of re-printing classics. Walter Lowrie was of the most important mid-century American interpreters of Kierkegaard, and due to Hamann's influence upon the Dane, Lowrie probably felt a need to introduce his students and the general public to the "Magus of the North." This is a splendid, little introduction to the man, his life, style, major controversies, and several important works. The major emphases of Hamann's career emerge through Lowrie's careful considerations: the centrality of God's Word, His extreme condescension, the proper place of reason as aid, and the necessity for man to utilize all of his powers in the act of philosophizing. Along with James O'Flaherty's books on Hamann, this is one of the best introductions to him in English. I only wish that Lowrie had written another, longer work which gave more serious consideration to the impact Hamann had upon Kierkegaard. I suppose that book is waiting to be written.

[Charles Puskas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Admired by Kierkegaard as a kindred spirit and respected by those with whom he disagreed, e.g., Kant, Herder, Hume, this paradoxical critic of the enlightenment program was as witty and thought-provoking G. K. Chesterton would later become. His knowledge of the Bible and the ancient classics was profound and his mastery of languages impressive (e.g., Latin, Greek, Hebrew, Ger., French, English). Hailed as the "Magus of the North" by a contemporary admirer, he called Kant the "Prussian Hume" and regarding Voltaire's writing style "its fire is not quenched, and its worm dieth not!" This short but insightful appreciation of JGH by renowned Kierkegaard scholar Walter Lowrie is an enjoyable read.