The Problems of Philosophy

‘The Problems of Philosophy’ is a 1912 book by the philosopher Bertrand Russell, in which he attempts to create a brief and accessible guide to the problems of philosophy. It was Russel’s venture to succinctly summarize problems in the subject of philosophy that prompted discussion among philosophers. In addition to espousing his own philosophies, Russel uses this book to introduce the philosophical principles from other famous philosophers: Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Hume, John Locke, Kant, and others.

The book focuses largely on the theory of knowledge and epistemology rather than matters of existence and reality. Russel sought to give light to philosophical problems that were not necessarily the most discussed, stating that he wanted to produce positive thoughts toward subjects that were garnering negative criticism rather than constructive criticism. This book was one of Russel’s foundational works and is an accessible guide to understanding philosophical topics.

Bertrand Russell (1872 - 1970). Philosopher, mathematician, educational and sexual reformer, pacifist, prolific letter writer, author and columnist, Bertrand Russell was one of the most influential and widely known intellectual figures of the twentieth century. In 1950 he was awarded the Noble Prize for Literature in 1950 for his extensive contributions to world literature and for his "rationality and humanity, as a fearless champion of free speech and free thought in the West."

Photo by Photographer not identified (Bertrand Russell (1916). Justice in War-Time.) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons.