Abstract

This edition is a reprint of the 1927 edition. The Nature of Existence is a classic more frequently honored than read. Except for a few hearty enthusiasts, McTaggart is not taken seriously by many philosophers influenced by the "linguistic turn." Yet in the rediscovery of metaphysics by analytic philosophers, they may be surprised to discover that many of the issues now hotly discussed are explored by McTaggart, including time, substance, quality, and existence. And it may be a further surprise that McTaggart displays a keen and subtle analytical mind. But McTaggart needs no defense in terms of his "relevance." On the contrary, the power and appeal of McTaggart is a sign of the return of contemporary philosophy to a direct confrontation with the perennial metaphysical issues.--R. J. B.