Practical and Theoretical Reason in Modern Philosophy

This book represents an impressive achievement: a clear, coherent and imminently readable account of a topic ordinarily dense and tangled in its presentation. It is rich with detail and subtle new insights. This is remarkable because it is a collaborative endeavor with multiple authors. The combination of authors enriches rather than constrains the text as each brings a new focus of interest to the rather direct line of analysis. The material connecting early nominalism, Leibniz, Berkeley and Kant is especially critical and engaging. Rather than being turgid or dry, the writing is engaging and well-paced, with examples, references to previous observations, and indications of what is at stake in the conversation.

This would serve as an ideal text for students as well as advanced scholars looking for a clear presentation of the material. While its greatest strength is its clarity, grounding the discussion in a narrative historical arch contextualizes often overlooked dimensions in these philosophical debates. I would recommend that a volume that builds on this one and develops the theme and discussion into the contemporary era would be very welcome.

Dr. John J. Markey

Professor of Theology

Oblate School of Theology, San Antonio, Texas