Pragmatism, Postmodernism and the Future of Philosophy is a vigorous and dynamic confrontation with the task and temperament of philosophy today. In this energetic and far-reaching new book, John J. Stuhr draws persuasively on the resources of the pragmatist tradition of James and Dewey, and critically engages the work of Continental philosophers like Adorno, Foucault and Deleuze, to explore fundamental questions of how we might think and live differently in the future. Along the way, the book addresses important issues in public policy, spirituality and the notion of community. This book is essential reading for anyone concerned with the future of philosophy and the ways in which philosophical thinking can help us live better, more fulfilling lives.

Table of Contents

Introduction Chapter 1. Thinking Beyond the 20th Century: Democracy and Education After Liberalism Chapter 2. The Defects of Liberalism: Lasting Elements of Negative Pragmatism Chapter 3. Democracy as a Way of Life: Democracy in the Face of Terrorism Chapter 4. Relevances, Realities, Rat Races: Democracy as a Personal Way of Life Chapter 5. From the Art of Surfaces to Control Societies and Beyond: Stoicism, Postmodernism and Pan-Machinism Chapter 6. From Consciousness of Doom to Criticism: Non-Dialectical Critical Theory Chapter 7. Genealogy, Critique and Transformation: In Our Time Chapter 8. Power/Inquiry: Criticism and the Logic of Pragmatism Chapter 9. Pragmatism, Pluralism and the Future of Philosophy: Farewell to an Idea Chapter 10. No Consolation: Life Without Spirituality, Philosophy Without Transcendence Index.