This is an exploration of modernism and postmodernism in regard to knowledge: methods of inquiry, operations of the mind, the role of values, conceptions of self, and the problematic of reason.

Let me begin by saying that this is an admirable collection, one that lives up to its title. William James, perhaps uniquely, is a philosopher who invites the companionship of others. One by one, the authors of these essays have accepted his invitation, each entering into a conversation with him. Ruth Anna Putnam has brought together a varied and interesting collection of essays; and I strongly recommend it both to specialists and to readers who may not yet be familiar with (...) his work. (shrink)