Studies in the Philosophy of Kierkegaard - Scholarly

In this review of Studies in the Philosophy of Kierkegaard, the reviewer finds a focused, scholarly examination of Kierkegaardian themes best suited to advanced students and researchers. E.D. Klemke collects revised and new essays that probe central problems in Kierkegaard's thought, and the single biggest reason to buy is the book's concentrated analysis of underemphasized issues in existing scholarship. This review notes that the volume is thoughtful, occasionally provocative, and valuable to those seeking careful philosophical argument rather than an introductory overview.

Key Features

• Focused essays: The book gathers several chapters that concentrate on central problems in Kierkegaard's philosophy, offering in-depth discussion for readers who already know the basics.
• Revised scholarship: Some chapters were previously published and revised for this volume, which provides updated arguments and clarifications in places where scholarship has evolved.
• Original material: Several chapters were written expressly for this book, adding fresh perspectives to ongoing debates about Kierkegaard.
• Critical engagement: Klemke explicitly addresses contentious positions, especially in Chapters IV and V, which encourages critical reflection rather than mere summary.
• Scholarly indebtedness: The text acknowledges influences like David Swenson and Paul L. Holmer, situating the work within a recognizable academic lineage.

Who It's For

This volume is primarily for graduate students, scholars, and serious readers of existentialist and Christian philosophy who want concentrated essays on specific Kierkegaardian problems rather than a general introduction. Those engaged in academic study will appreciate Klemke's careful argumentation and the inclusion of both revised and new material.

Readers seeking a beginner-friendly introduction, a broad historical survey, or a popularized overview of Kierkegaard's life and works should look elsewhere; this book assumes some prior familiarity and rewards close, patient reading rather than casual browsing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Provides concentrated, scholarly examination of central Kierkegaardian issues useful for research and advanced study.
• Combines revised essays and new chapters, which offers both refinement of earlier work and new contributions to the field.
• Engages with contested positions directly, prompting further discussion and critique in Kierkegaard studies.

Cons

• Not designed as an entry-level introduction, so beginners may find the treatment dense and assume background knowledge.

Specifications

Title	Studies in the Philosophy of Kierkegaard
Author	E.D. Klemke
Content type	Collected essays (revised and new chapters)
Primary focus	Philosophical problems and topics in Kierkegaard's thought
Scholarly influences	David Swenson and Paul L. Holmer acknowledged
Notable chapters	Chapters IV and V contain especially controversial positions

Our Verdict

Studies in the Philosophy of Kierkegaard is a worthwhile purchase for scholars and advanced students who want rigorous, narrowly focused essays that revisit and extend debates in Kierkegaard scholarship. Its mix of revised material and original chapters makes it good value for those doing research or seminar work, though it is not the right choice for readers seeking a general introduction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book require prior knowledge of Kierkegaard?
Yes. The essays assume familiarity with Kierkegaard's major ideas and are best suited to readers with some background in the subject.

Are the chapters original or previously published?
The volume contains both revised previously published chapters and chapters written expressly for this book.

Is the book aimed at a general audience?
No. It is aimed at a scholarly audience and those interested in detailed philosophical analysis rather than popular exposition.