The Mind of Kierkegaard

by James Daniel Collins

This introductory overview of Kierkegaard's writings summarizes their central arguments and places them in their historical context.

Originally published in 1984.

The Princeton Legacy Library uses the latest print-on-demand technology to again make available previously out-of-print books from the distinguished backlist of Princeton University Press. These editions preserve the original texts of these important books while presenting them in durable paperback and hardcover editions. The goal of the Princeton Legacy Library is to vastly increase access to the rich scholarly heritage found in the thousands of books published by Princeton University Press since its founding in 1905.

Genres: Philosophy

336 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1983

Reviews

[Tim · Rating 3 out of 5]

Extremely convoluted

[Tim Jussaume · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid overview of Kierkegaard’s overall philosophical project. Written from the perspective of a Thomist. As such, it highlights more Thomistic concerns around epistemology, God as supreme being, and Kierkegaard’s departure from traditional metaphysical categories. I wouldn’t recommend this book to someone without at least a basic background in the history of philosophy, as it’s not meant for a beginner. Assumes an understanding of Aristotelian hylomorphism and Hegelian dialectic.

The strength of this book is its insistence on the singular importance of the individual and the individual relation to God for Kierkegaard. The shortcoming is that doesn’t capture the key role of anxiety as core feature of faith and the full radicality of what it takes to become an individual.

[Tyrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent exposition, and occasional corrective, of Kierkegaard's thought.