ON THE PHILOSOPHY OF HISTORY

by Jacques Maritain ‧ RELEASE DATE: N/A

Philosophies of history, since Hegel, have not been in good repute among historians or professional philosophers- despite the impact of Marx, Spengler and Toynbee. Maritain attempts here to reassert the need for a philosophy of history; to meet and conciliate the various types of objection to such a commanding idea; and finally to propose that Christian morality and mystique- at least for the Western world are the true means to a believable, meaningful, inclusive philosophy of history. Matain occasionally modifies this last point but in the main clings to it. Accordingly his views are largely expressed in terms of the Bible, New Testament, exegetical writings and Christian thought and his attitudes, with all their logical coherence and scientific concession, are rooted in Christian tradition. Maritain, to be specific, has no unique philosophy of history to set forth- but he does show how- within Christian theology- such a philosophy could come about, could prove acceptable to historian and philosophers alike, and could influence human progress. He is a thinker and writer of stature- and will reach his own audience.

Pub Date: N/A

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Scribner

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 1957

Categories: NONFICTION