Comparative Philosophy and Method - by Steven Burik & Robert Smid & Ralph Weber

Book Synopsis

Addressing arguments that comparative philosophy is itself impossible, or that it is indistinguishable from philosophy more generally, this collection challenges myopic understandings of comparative method and encourages a more informed consideration.

Bringing together a wide variety of methodological options, it features scholars spread across the globe representing a wide variety of philosophical traditions. Each chapter presents a cutting-edge reflection on the latest work in methodology. From the beginnings of comparative philosophy in the 19th century to present-day proposals for an Institute for Cosmopolitan Philosophy, each chapter serves as a viable methodological alternative for any would-be philosophical comparativist.

With contributions from leading comparativists that are both distinctive in their method and explicit about its application, this is a valuable resource in comparative methodology that challenges and enriches the awareness and sensitivity of both the beginning comparativist and seasoned veteran alike.

Review Quotes

"One of the great advantages of comparative philosophy is that it allows multiple perspectives to inform our thought. One of the great advantages of this volume is that it brings multiple perspectives to bear on comparative philosophy itself, demonstrating the complexity, the value, and the manifold nature of the comparative approach." --Jay L Garfield FAHA, Doris Silbert Professor in the Humanities, and Professor of Philosophy and Buddhist Studies, Smith College and the Harvard Divinity School, USA

"A truly illuminating showcase of diverse methodological reflections in comparative philosophy. With contributors from varied philosophical and cultural traditions, this volume will spark rigorous debates and provide a useful guide to methodological concerns in the field." --Sor-hoon Tan, Professor of Philosophy, Singapore Management University, Singapore

"Essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the main challenges of comparative philosophy today and the diverse approaches that philosophers from around the world have developed to meet them." --Tim Connolly, Professor and Chair in the Modern Languages, Philosophy, and Religion Department, East Stroudsburg University, USA

About the Author

Steven Burik is Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Singapore Management University, Singapore.
Robert Smid is Associate Professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies at Curry College, USA.
Ralph Weber is Associate Professor of European Global Studies at University of Basel, Switzerland.