American Philosophies

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, this 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 and illustrates the ways in which philosophy is relevant to lived experience.

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 seriously the dramatic political and social machinations of the past seven years 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.

Erin McKenna is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Oregon, USA. She is the author of many philosophy books including Animal Pragmatism (2004) and Living with Animals (2020) and is co-editor of Pragmatist Feminism and the Work of Charlene Haddock Seigfried (Bloomsbury, 2022).

Scott L. Pratt is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Oregon, USA. He is an expert in American philosophy and is author of books such as Native Pragmatism: Rethinking the Roots of American Philosophy (2002) and co-editor many philosophical volumes including American Philosophies: An Anthology (2002).