The Devil in Modern Philosophy - Selected Philosophical Themes

In this review of The Devil in Modern Philosophy, Ernest Gellner collects essays that explore how philosophy connects to real life, arguing that abstract thought cannot be separated from social and intellectual practice. The book is best for readers who want thoughtful essays that move between theory and concrete figures; the single biggest reason to buy is Gellner's sustained attention to how philosophical problems show up in the work and lives of thinkers such as Chomsky, Piaget and Eysenck. This is a reflective, essay-driven volume rather than a textbook, and it rewards readers who appreciate clear, argumentative prose.

Key Features

• Essay collection: Brings together Gellner's pieces on modern philosophical themes, making disparate reflections accessible in one volume.
• Connection to life: Emphasizes how philosophical ideas interact with everyday concerns and intellectual practice, offering practical perspective on abstract debates.
• Profiles of thinkers: Includes discussions of prominent individuals such as Chomsky, Piaget and Eysenck, which ground theoretical points in real intellectual biographies.
• Range of approaches: Approaches the central topic from multiple directions, giving readers a variety of angles on the philosophy-life relationship.
• Concise format: Essays are focused and readable, suited to readers who prefer compact, argumentative pieces rather than long monographs.

Who It's For

The Devil in Modern Philosophy will appeal to students and general readers interested in the crossroads of philosophy, social science and intellectual history; it is especially useful for those who enjoy essays that engage named thinkers while keeping an eye on wider cultural implications. Scholars familiar with Chomsky, Piaget or Eysenck will find helpful touchstones and critique that illuminate familiar debates.

Readers seeking a comprehensive textbook introduction to any single philosopher or a technical treatise on analytic philosophy should look elsewhere; this collection privileges thematic reflection and comparative commentary over systematic exposition or exhaustive biography.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear, essayistic style makes complex ideas accessible without oversimplifying.
• Engaging focus on named figures provides concrete examples of abstract arguments.
• Varied perspectives keep the collection lively and intellectually provocative.

Cons

• Not a substitute for comprehensive introductions to individual thinkers, so readers seeking deep single-author coverage may be disappointed.

Specifications

Title	The Devil in Modern Philosophy (Selected Philosophical Themes)
Author	Ernest Gellner
Format	Essay collection
Main focus	Connection between philosophy and life
Notable subjects	Chomsky, Piaget, Eysenck
Approach	Thematic and comparative essays

Our Verdict

Gellner's collection is a thoughtful, well argued set of essays that benefits readers who want philosophical commentary tied to real intellectual figures and social concerns. It is good value for anyone looking for concise, reflective pieces that bridge theory and practice, though those needing exhaustive single-subject studies should supplement it with specialist works.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a textbook or a collection of essays?
The book is a collection of essays, not a textbook; it offers thematic reflections rather than systematic instruction.

Which thinkers are discussed?
The volume includes discussions of figures such as Chomsky, Piaget and Eysenck among other modern philosophical subjects.

Who benefits most from this book?
Readers who enjoy concise, argumentative essays linking philosophical ideas to intellectual life will gain the most from this collection.