Stoic Pragmatism

John Lachs is Centennial Professor of Philosophy at Vanderbilt University.

"A direct attack on fundamentalisms of all sorts and on aggressive fanaticisms. . . . Lachs's recommendations for philosophy and for life are rooted in a deeply thought-out individualism that is not individualistic . . . a program for philosophy and a program for life."—Robert E. Innis, University of Massachusetts Lowell"Lachs uses his interpretations and assessments of leading philosophical figures to craft and express his own original outlook."—Jessica Wahman, Dickinson College"Stoic Pragmatism offers plenty of appeal and promise. It fulfills its pragmatic mission of aiming at amelioration and encouraging our hopes – hopes partly inspired by Lachs's promise of further statements and refinements of his views."—Philosophy in Review". . . a valuable contribution to the ongoing discussion of how pragmatism should be developed today . . . ."—Transactions C S Peirce Society". . . I am confident thatStoic Pragmatism, like Walden, will elevate and humble readers by reminding them of their half-forgotten hopes for a nobler life."—Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews"Few scholars have comprehended the capacities and limitations of classical American philosophy better than Lachs, who looks even further back to the Stoics as a model for understanding pragmatism. ... Recommended."—Choice

• AcknowledgmentsIntroduction1. What Can Philosophy Do to Make Life Better?2. Stoic Pragmatism3. Infinite Obligations4. An Ontology for Stoic PragmatismEpilogue: The Personal Value and Social Usefulness of Philosophy