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A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1710

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Book Brief

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George Berkeley

A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1710
Book Details
Pages

144

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1710s

Publication Year

1710

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge, George Berkeley presents his philosophy of immaterialism, asserting that nothing exists outside of a mind's perception. He critiques contemporary empiricists like John Locke and David Hume, arguing that abstract thought and belief in independent matter lead to philosophical confusion. Berkeley claims that reality consists of ideas perceived by minds, primarily God's mind, and thus objects do not exist without perception. He aims to counter skepticism and atheism, reinforcing the presence and order of a creator spirit, God, and aligns his viewpoints with common sense, science, and Christianity.

Informative

Contemplative

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

3.9

3,332 ratings

60%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

George Berkeley's A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge offers groundbreaking idealist philosophy, arguing that reality consists solely of minds and their ideas. Critics praise its innovative perspective and clarity, though some find the arguments abstract and challenging. Essential reading for students of philosophy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge?

A reader who enjoys A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge by George Berkeley is likely passionate about philosophy, especially epistemology and metaphysics. They appreciate intricate arguments about the nature of reality and perception. Similar readers might enjoy Descartes' Meditations on First Philosophy and Hume's An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding.

3.9

3,332 ratings

60%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

144

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1710s

Publication Year

1710

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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