Routledge Naturalization of the Soul - Philosophy Book

Naturalization of the Soul: Self and Personal Identity in the Eighteenth Century offers a deep look into the development of Western thought. Part of the Routledge Studies in Eighteenth-Century Philosophy, this work tracks how concepts of the soul and self have evolved from the era of Plato to the present day. This book addresses a significant gap in intellectual history. It focuses on the massive shifts that occurred during the eighteenth century, a period when the religious concept of the soul transitioned into a philosophical self and eventually into a scientific mind. By examining these shifts, the text provides a clear view of how our modern understanding of identity was formed. The authors demonstrate that many ideas currently considered contemporary were actually debated during the eighteenth century. This study also highlights the importance of William Hazlitt, recognizing his status in the evolution of these ideas. It is a necessary resource for students and scholars interested in the history of philosophy and the roots of personal identity.