In the writings of both C. S. Peirce and Sir Karl Popper, we can find “objectivity” defined in the pragmatic sense as being in essence “intersubjective agreement.” The present paper is focused on the general relationship between the conception of objectivity in the above pragmatic sense, and the conception of objectivity in the classical realistic sense of “nonsubjectivity,” or brute otherness, as expressed by Peirce in its purest form in his category of secondness.

"This monograph is written with admirable lucidity and delightful wit. In using humor as a weapon in philosophical argument it is beautifully in the Russellian tradition. The arguments appear to be devastating. Defenders of Heidegger will have a hard time trying to answer it." --J.C.C. Smart, Professor of Philosophy, The Australian National University.

“The 17th century philosopher Spinoza faces a contemporary panel of fourteen philosophers. Spinoza’s Ethics, Politics, and his philosophy of mind are examined in the first half of this singular critique. The second half, devoted to Spinoza’s epistemology and metaphysics, completes the array of his ideas. Spinoza has always provoked strong reaction. He was driven from the Temple in Amsterdam for his heretical views. The next century extolled him as the savior of rational religion. Here, the 20th century begins to come (...) to terms with this most disturbing philosopher. Stuart Hampshire, William Frankena and Frederick C. Copleston are among the modern thinkers who clarify and do battle with Spinoza’s major concepts. This is a crucial and exciting work in which living philosophy makes use of its past to reach out to new ideas. The scholarly bibliography complements this unique presentation, making it an invaluable asset for students.”- Publisher. (shrink)