Existentialism: A Reconstruction by David Cooper

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that delves into the nature of individual existence, freedom, and choice. It emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and the creation of meaning in an indifferent universe. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the key thinkers and ideas that have shaped existentialist thought, including figures like Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Albert Camus. /n/n The movement has had a significant impact on various fields, including literature, psychology, and politics. It challenges traditional philosophical systems and encourages a focus on the subjective experience of the individual. Whether you are new to existentialism or looking to deepen your understanding, this book offers valuable insights into one of the most influential philosophical movements of the 20th century.

Reviews

Goodreads · 2025-12-22

great 3.80

This book is widely regarded as a classic introductory survey of existentialism, first published in 1990. It is praised for its comprehensive coverage and philosophical depth, making it a valuable resource for readers interested in existentialist thought.

This review highlights the book's status as a classic introductory survey of existentialism, first published in 1990. It is praised for its comprehensive coverage and philosophical depth, making it a valuable resource for readers interested in existentialist thought. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to provide a clear and thorough introduction to the subject, making it accessible to a wide range of readers. The book's focus on the philosophical aspects of existentialism, rather than the literary, is particularly noted as a strength. It is seen as a valuable contribution to the understanding of existentialism, suitable for both beginners and those with some background in philosophy.

Quick quotes

First published in 1990, Existentialism is widely regarded as a classic introductory survey.

It's also very philosophically rigorous.

It tends to steer away from the literary side of existentialism.

FiveBooks · 2025-12-22

brilliant 4.50

This book is praised for its clear and rigorous introduction to existentialist thought, steering away from the literary side to focus on philosophical depth. It is considered a valuable resource for understanding the core ideas of existentialism.

This book is highly recommended for anyone looking to dive into existentialist thought. It's noted for its clarity and philosophical rigor, making complex ideas accessible without oversimplifying them. The reviewer appreciates how it avoids getting bogged down in literary interpretations, focusing instead on the philosophical underpinnings. This approach makes it a standout introduction to the subject, suitable for both beginners and those with some background in philosophy. The book's ability to reconstruct existentialist ideas from the works of key thinkers like Heidegger and Sartre is particularly highlighted, making it a comprehensive guide to the movement.

Quick quotes

This is a fabulous, clear introduction to existentialist thought.

It's also very philosophically rigorous.

It tends to steer away from the literary side of existentialism.

The Pop Culture Coup · 2014-10-30

good 3.50

The book is recognized for its strengths in providing a sympathetic and original account of existentialist philosophy, though it is noted to have some weaknesses. It is seen as a valuable contribution to the understanding of existentialism.

This review compares the book to another on existentialism, noting that both have their strengths and weaknesses. The reviewer appreciates the book's sympathetic and original account of existentialist philosophy, which is reconstructed from the writings of key figures like Heidegger and Sartre. While it is praised for its depth and clarity, it is also acknowledged that it may not be perfect for everyone. The reviewer finds it to be a valuable resource for understanding existentialism, particularly for those interested in the philosophical rather than the literary aspects of the movement. The book's ability to provide a comprehensive overview while maintaining philosophical rigor is highlighted as one of its key strengths.

Quick quotes

Both have their strengths and weaknesses.

Cooper provides a sympathetic, original account of a mainstream movement of philosophical thought.

Reconstructed from the best writing of Heidegger, Sartre.

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