A Pluralistic Universe · Question
How does A Pluralistic Universe develop the theme of Critique of Absolutism?
Answer
A Pluralistic Universe by William James develops Critique of Absolutism across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Argues that the Absolute, as conceived by Hegel and other idealists, is a foreign, static, and abstract entity that de-realizes human experience, history, and suffering.
James critiques the absolute as a 'metaphysical monster' (Bradley) and argues that its logical proofs, like Lotze's, are merely verbal, failing to provide genuine understanding.
James argues that the absolute is not forced by logic and is an improbable hypothesis, raising the problem of evil and irrationality as key objections.
Evidence in the book
- Lecture II: Monistic Idealism
James critiques the absolute as a 'metaphysical monster' (Bradley) and argues that its logical proofs, like Lotze's, are merely verbal, failing to provide genuine understanding.
- Lecture III: Hegel and His Method
James argues that the absolute is not forced by logic and is an improbable hypothesis, raising the problem of evil and irrationality as key objections.
