The Problems of Philosophy

Bertrand Russell (1872-1970) was a British philosopher, mathematician, and social critic. Russell was often compared to Voltaire due to his wide range of interests about which he wrote extensively, including analytic philosophy, humanities, mathematical logic, natural sciences, politics, religion, and ethics. He continues to be highly regarded for his contributions to these numerous fields. Russell received numerous awards throughout his life: the 1932 De Morgan Medal, 1934 Sylvester Medal, 1949 Order of Merit, 1950 Nobel Prize in Literature, 1957 Kalinga Prize, and 1963 Jerusalem Prize.

Russell’s parents were eccentric members of the British aristocracy. His father was a deist, and he named philosopher John Stuart Mill as Russell’s secular godfather. When Russell’s mother died in 1874 and his father died in 1876, he and two siblings moved in with their grandfather, the former Prime Minister Earl Russell, and grandmother, Countess Russell. Russell’s privileged upbringing is evident in The Problems of Philosophy since he uses examples such as the Eiffel Tower, which point to his travel experience and cultural capital. Nevertheless, although Countess Russell was a conservative Presbyterian, she taught Russell about the importance of social justice and standing up for what is right.

As a boy, Russell experienced depression. However, he found comfort in studying mathematics and poetry.