Informal Philosophy

by Avrum Stroll

Overview

Informal Philosophy provides an original look at how we should understand and teach philosophy. Avrum Stroll persuasively argues that philosophy should be evaluated using its own methodology and should not merely mimic formal scientific analysis, because while modern science does inform our philosophical views about man and his place in nature, it does not solve philosophical problems. Stroll effectively makes the case for the use of informal philosophy_that is, an approach guided by common sense, appealing to ordinary discourse, and employing a context-driven line of inquiry_to answer philosophical problems.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780742570276
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	05/16/2009
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	192
Product dimensions:	6.20(w) x 9.10(h) x 0.80(d)

About the Author

Avrum Stroll is Research Professor of Philosophy at the University of California at San Diego.

Table of Contents

1 Introduction
2 Chapter 1: Common Sense
3 Chapter 2: The Appeal to Ordinary Language
4 Chapter 3: The Method of Cases
5 Chapter 4: What Philosophy Should Be

Editorial Reviews

Here is a philosopher with his feet on the ground who tells us that while it is up to science to form our theories, sometimes common sense can be more valuable. He shows how a piecemeal look at language uncovers facts and conceptual issues beyond the reach of theoretical or any formal approaches.The rigor and astounding clarity that Avrum Stroll brings to his case for an informal and context-sensitive approach to philosophy is an example to us all and sets a standard that formalists themselves will appreciate.

Alastair Hannay

Swimming against the tide, Avrum Stroll develops a powerful alternative conception of 'informal philosophy', a conception that attributes to philosophy an independent, legitimate—and, yes, intellectually important—life of its own. Standing on the three legs of common sense, ordinary language, and the method of cases ('scenarios'), informal philosophy is not a handmaiden of science; neither is it simply a method for resolving conceptual confusions. Professor Stroll shows how much life still exists in post-World War II 'ordinary-language' philosophical movement. As the most eminent living practitioner of 'informal philosophy', Stroll brilliantly shows both its power and its appeal.

Michael J. White

Students and non-academic lovers of philosophy will find themselves absorbed by this enlightening and sobering reassessment of formal philosophy. Avrum Stroll provides a refreshing alternative: philosophy as the strong liking for knowledge of what is true or right, complemented by good judgment and common sense about practical matters. Written in Stroll's characteristic plain speech, Informal Philosophy will be (thoroughly) enjoyed.

Danièle Moyal-Sharrock

This book includes much discussion of the problems of other minds and the existence of the external world.. .. Recommended.

Choice Reviews

Avrum Stroll presents an attractive alternative to formal philosophy in his new book. He covers a large part of classical philosophical problems with verve and insight. His "method of cases" is an especially fruitful approach to solving philosophical problems.

Aloysius P. Martinich

This book includes much discussion of the problems of other minds and the existence of the external world.. .. Recommended.

December 2009 Choice Reviews

This book includes much discussion of the problems of other minds and the existence of the external world.. .. Recommended.

Choice

Here is a philosopher with his feet on the ground who tells us that while it is up to science to form our theories, sometimes common sense can be more valuable. He shows how a piecemeal look at language uncovers facts and conceptual issues beyond the reach of theoretical or any formal approaches.The rigor and astounding clarity that Avrum Stroll brings to his case for an informal and context-sensitive approach to philosophy is an example to us all and sets a standard that formalists themselves will appreciate.--Alastair Hannay, Professor Emeritus of Philosophy, University of Olso

Avrum Stroll presents an attractive alternative to formal philosophy in his new book. He covers a large part of classical philosophical problems with verve and insight. His "method of cases" is an especially fruitful approach to solving philosophical problems.--Aloysius P. Martinich, Roy Allison Vaughan Centennial Professor in Philosophy, University of Texas

Swimming against the tide, Avrum Stroll develops a powerful alternative conception of 'informal philosophy', a conception that attributes to philosophy an independent, legitimate--and, yes, intellectually important--life of its own. Standing on the three legs of common sense, ordinary language, and the method of cases ('scenarios'), informal philosophy is not a handmaiden of science; neither is it simply a method for resolving conceptual confusions. Professor Stroll shows how much life still exists in post-World War II 'ordinary-language' philosophical movement. As the most eminent living practitioner of 'informal philosophy', Stroll brilliantly shows both its power and its appeal.--Michael J. White, Arizona State University

From the Publisher

Students and non-academic lovers of philosophy will find themselves absorbed by this enlightening and sobering reassessment of formal philosophy. Avrum Stroll provides a refreshing alternative: philosophy as the strong liking for knowledge of what is true or right, complemented by good judgment and common sense about practical matters. Written in Stroll's characteristic plain speech, Informal Philosophy will be (thoroughly) enjoyed.

Danièle Moyal-Sharrock

This book includes much discussion of the problems of other minds and the existence of the external world.. .. Recommended.

December 2009 CHOICE