PRAISE FOR BASIC WRITINGS OF EXISTENTIALISM

“Basic Writings of Existentialism will be, for many, a reminder of what first drew them to existentialism and, simply, to philosophy. Marino’s introductory essays—taut, instructive, well tuned to the drumbeat of each thinker’s passions and concerns—along with the substantial selections from the foremost representatives of the movement, are a benediction. In defiance of Hegel’s pronouncements, the thinkers included here introduce us to a philosophy in present tense, and preferably in the active voice. Readers new to existentialism have as reliable a guide as the subject matter permits. Those familiar with movement have an occasion for recollection and more.”

—Vanessa Rumble, associate professor of philosophy, Boston College

“This book is a perfect choice for all who wonder what existentialism is all about. The key writers are included—Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, and Dostoevsky from the nineteenth century, and Heidegger, Sartre, and Camus from the twentieth century. It’s good to see selections from Simone de Beauvoir and Ralph Ellison as well. Marino has a sharp eye for picking telling passages from often long and complex works. It’s now clear that existentialism is one of the enduring traditions in Western philosophy, art, and religion, a perspective that articulates and responds to the deepest human needs. These fresh selections lay out the issues, from alienation to reconciliation, from despair to joyful wisdom, that make this world perspective so compelling. Marino’s introductions to each writer, and his introductory overview, are lively and capture the spirit of the chosen texts. A profound adventure awaits those readers ready to immerse themselves in this jewel of a book.”

—Edward F. Mooney, professor of philosophy and religion, Syracuse University