Heidegger: An Introduction

Richard Polt provides a comprehensive and engaging introduction to Martin Heidegger, one of the most intellectually demanding philosophers of the modern era. This book covers the entire range of Heidegger's thought, from his central concern with the question of Being to his political involvement with the Nazis in the 1930s. Polt skillfully communicates the essence of Heidegger's philosophy, enabling readers, especially those new to his writings, to approach his works with confidence and insight. The book explores Heidegger's environment, personality, and early thought, and carefully takes readers through his best-known work, Being and Time. It also provides guidelines for understanding his later thought, including Contributions to Philosophy and other important texts. /n/n The book analyzes persistent points of difference between competing schools of interpretation and gives special attention to Heidegger's political involvement with the Nazis, indicating the strengths and weaknesses of the reactions to his politics. Polt presents the questions Heidegger grappled with and the positions he adopted, making this an essential guide for anyone interested in Heidegger's philosophy.