American Philosophies : From Wounded Knee to the Present: 2nd Edition

American Philosophies offers the first historically framed introduction to the tradition of American philosophy and its contemporary engagement with the world.

Born out of the social and political turmoil of the Civil War, American philosophy was a means of dealing with conflict and change. In the turbulence of the 21st century, it remains as relevant as ever. Placing the work of present-day American philosophers in the context of a history of resistance, through a philosophical tradition marked by a commitment to pluralism, fallibilism and liberation, this book tells the story of philosophies shaped by major events.

The 2nd edition of this book presents a survey of the historical development of American philosophy, as well as coverage of key contemporary issues in America including race theory, feminism, gender, indigenous peoples, philosophies of disability and environmentalism. In particular, it contains new coverage of Covid, the election of Donald Trump, American religious thought, and immigration history. It also takes the dramatic political and social machinations of the past seven years seriously, and engages with emerging voices and traditions. This is a substantial and provocative introduction to the work of the major American thinkers and their contemporary interlocuters.