Tentieth-Century French Philosophy [Paperback]

Philosophy plays an integral role in French society, affecting its art, drama, politics, and culture. In this accessible, chronological survey, Matthews offers some explanations for the enduring popularity of the subject and traces the developments that French philosophy has taken in the twentieth century, from its roots in the thoughts of Descartes to key figures such as Bergson, Sartre, Marcel, Merleau-Ponty, Foucault, Derrida, and the recent French Feminists.

Gives the reader an exceptionally clear idea of the thought of...the most significant French philosophers of our time....Matthews excells at 'translating' the ideas of Sartre, Merleau-Ponty, Lacan, Foucault, Derrida and others....[An] excellent introduction [distinguished] by Matthews's enthusiasm for French thought and the perspicacity of his presentation. --Philosophy and Literature

This book...is a helpful introduction to twentieth-century French thought. --Teaching Philosophy

Matthew's enthusiasm for French thought and the perspicacity of his presentation are a welcome change from some of the vitriolic reactions we see nowadays. --Philosophy and Literature

Eric Matthews is Head of the Philosophy Department at the University of Aberdeen.