The Philosophy of 'As If': A System of the Theoretical, Practical and Religious Fictions of Mankind. - Couverture souple

Vaihinger, Hans

Couverture souple

ISBN 10 : 102590429X ISBN 13 : 9781025904290

Editeur : Tradd Street Press, 2026

Synopsis

"The Philosophy of 'As If'" is a monumental contribution to epistemology and philosophical fictionalism. In this systematic investigation, Hans Vaihinger explores the profound concept that many human ideas-though demonstrably false or contradictory-are indispensable fictions used to navigate the world. Vaihinger distinguishes these productive "fictions" from "hypotheses," arguing that while hypotheses seek to describe reality, fictions are intentional mental constructs designed to facilitate thought and action.

The work provides a comprehensive analysis of how these constructs operate across various fields, including mathematics, science, ethics, and religion. By examining the "theoretical, practical and religious fictions of mankind," the text suggests that human progress often depends on treating concepts "as if" they were true to achieve specific goals. This rigorous framework challenges traditional views on truth and reality, offering instead a pragmatic view of human cognition and the utility of the mind's creations. "The Philosophy of 'As If'" remains a vital resource for scholars of logic and philosophy, exerting a lasting influence on 20th-century thought and psychology.

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Détails de l'édition

• Éditeur: Tradd Street Press
• Date d'édition: 2026
• Langue: anglais
• ISBN 10: 102590429X
• ISBN 13: 9781025904290
• Reliure: Broché
• Nombre de pages: 428
• Coordonnées du fabricant: non disponible
• Personne responsable: non disponible