Wilderness in America: Philosophical Writings

by Henry Bugbee, David W. Rodick

Overview

The philosophy of Henry Bugbee defies traditional academic categorization. Though inspired by Heidegger and American Transcendentalism, he was also admired by the famous analytic philosopher Willard van Orman Quine, who described him as the ultimate exemplar of the examined life.

Bugbee's writings are remarkably different from anything written in twentieth-century American philosophy, most famously in the journal-form of his best-known work, The Inward Morning. The beautifully written essays collected here show Bugbee's continuing commitment that "anyone who throws his entire personality into his work must to some extent adopt an aesthetic attitude and medium."

Beginning with an introductory account of Bugbee's "experiential naturalism," this book brings Bugbee's early writings together with some of his most celebrated essays, as well as unpublished pieces, an extended interview, and a handful of tributes and reflections by others. Together, the book reintroduces a major thinker of nature, an environmental philosopher avant la lettre who has much to contribute to American and continental thought.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780823275366
Publisher:	Fordham University Press
Publication date:	07/03/2017
Series:	Groundworks: Ecological Issues in Philosophy and Theology
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	240
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.60(d)

About the Author

Henry Bugbee (1915-99) was the author of The Inward Morning: A Philosophical Exploration in Journal Form.

David W. Rodick has taught philosophy at the University of Southern Maine, the University of Maryland University College at Bagram, Afghanistan, Michigan Technological University, and Xavier University in Cincinnati.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Part I: Student Writings

Part II: Published Writings

Part III: Unpublished Writings

Part IV: Experience, Memory, Reflection: An Interview with Henry Bugbee.

Appendices

Bibliography

Editorial Reviews

For environmental philosophers, environmental historians, conservationists and wilderness advocates, the essays included in Wilderness in America together offer testimony on Bugbee’s dovetailing of embodiment and reflection in place.

Environmental Values

Wilderness in America is an impressive introduction to the life and work of an original (and far-too-long neglected) figure in American philosophy. David Rodick has performed a valuable service to students and scholars of American arts and letters.

Daniel Conway

Essential for anyone interested in wilderness, revelation, and calling. Henry Bugbee is a philosophical voice of the first order.

Edward F. Mooney

Reading this wonderful book inspires me to look back on my own research and writing and wonder why I had not known Henry Bugbee? I feel as though he were following me, always there in a blind spot, and now suddenly coming around offering a smile and a wave as he passes.

Reading Religion - Kip Redick

"Wilderness in America is an impressive introduction to the life and work of an original (and far-too-long neglected) figure in American philosophy. David Rodick has performed a valuable service to students and scholars of American arts and letters."—Daniel Conway, Texas A&M University

"Essential for anyone interested in wilderness, revelation, and calling. Henry Bugbee is a philosophical voice of the first order."—Edward F. Mooney, Syracuse University

From the Publisher