This carefully curated selection presents the essential works of Immanuel Kant, one of philosophy’s most influential thinkers. From his groundbreaking Critique of Pure Reason to his revolutionary moral philosophy and innovative aesthetics, these selections showcase Kant’s systematic approach to understanding human knowledge, morality, and judgment. With expert guidance from renowned Kant scholar Paul Guyer, readers can navigate Kant’s complex ideas through thoughtfully chosen excerpts that highlight the interconnected nature of his philosophical system. This collection serves as both an introduction to Kant’s thought for newcomers and a valuable reference for scholars, demonstrating why his ideas continue to shape philosophical discussions today.
Immanuel Kant (1724-1804) was a German philosopher who is considered one of the most influential thinkers in Western philosophy. Born in Königsberg, Prussia, he spent his entire life in the city, where he served as a professor at the University of Königsberg. Kant's work created a revolution in philosophy through his "Copernican Revolution," which placed the active human mind at the center of knowledge and experience. His three Critiques - of Pure Reason, Practical Reason, and Judgment - transformed our understanding of metaphysics, knowledge, morality, and aesthetics. His ideas about human autonomy, categorical imperatives, and the limits of human knowledge continue to influence contemporary discussions in philosophy, ethics, and political theory.
Paul Guyer is Jonathan Nelson Professor of Humanities and Philosophy at Brown University. He is one of the world's foremost Kant scholars, having published numerous books and articles on Kant's philosophy, including Kant and the Claims of Knowledge, Kant and the Experience of Freedom, and Knowledge, Reason, and Taste: Kant's Response to Hume. His translations and interpretations of Kant's work have helped make these complex philosophical texts accessible to English-speaking audiences while maintaining their philosophical rigor. Guyer's expertise spans Kant's theoretical philosophy, practical philosophy, and aesthetics, making him uniquely qualified to present this selection of Kant's works.
