The Logical Foundations of Bradley's Metaphysics: Judgment, Inference, and Truth

by James Allard

Overview

This major contribution to the study of F.H. Bradley, the most influential member of the nineteenth century school of British Idealist philosophers, offers a sustained interpretation of his Principles of Logic. After explaining how it is possible for inferences to be valid and yet have conclusions containing new information, James Allard describes how this solution provides a basis for Bradley's metaphysical view that reality is one interconnected experience. In the process he uncovers a new problem as to the nature of truth.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521834056
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	11/22/2004
Pages:	262
Product dimensions:	6.34(w) x 9.29(h) x 1.02(d)

About the Author

James W. Allard is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Montana State University.

Table of Contents

1. Faith, idealism, and logic; 2. Bradley's project; 3. Judgment; 4. Conditional judgments; 5. A system of judgments; 6. The problem of inference; 7. The validity of inference; 8. Truth.

Editorial Reviews

"There is no book which confronts comprehensively—as Allard's does—the way in which Bradley arrives at his complexly interrelated theories of judgment, inference and truth by negative evaluation of alternative accounts....Allard succeeds in combining at each stage, lucid exegesis with critical discussion that gives Bradley's theories a contemporary relevance and raises them far above objects of merely historical interest."
Dr. Guy Stock, University of Dundee

"[Allard] is just the sort of traveling companion that is needed, being insightful, clearheaded, and calm in a crisis. He knows the terrain, has a good grasp of where the main peaks and dangers lurk, and moves at a steady pace. He is also encouraging and friendly, keeping you going when spirits flag, sharing your pain.
“This is all to the good, because Allard’s central target is perhaps the most daunting challenge that British Idealism has to offer: Bradley’s Principles of Logic. Allard shows characteristic sympathy with the weary traveler on this point…Nonetheless, of course, Allard believes he can find a way through for us, and I think he does."
Robert Stern, University of Sheffield, Philosophical Review

"...the book is to be welcomed by students of Bradley for its remarkably clear and unpretentious exposition of central themes in these difficult topics."
Thomas S. Weston, San Diego State University, Journal of the History of Philosophy

From the Publisher