William Barrett war ein Philosophieprofessor, der dafür bekannt war, komplexe philosophische Ideen einem breiten Publikum zugänglich zu machen. Seine Arbeit befasste sich mit der existenziellen Philosophie und der Natur der Technik und bot auf zugängliche Weise tiefe Einblicke. Er wurde für seine Fähigkeit gefeiert, abstrakte Konzepte in verständliche Prosa zu übersetzen, wodurch seine einflussreichen Schriften weiterhin bei den Lesern Anklang finden.
Exploring the intersection of spirituality and science, this 1917 publication argues for the legitimacy of spiritualist practices through a scientific lens. The author presents evidence and reasoning to challenge skepticism, aiming to elevate spiritualism as a respectable field of inquiry. The work seeks to bridge the gap between empirical research and mystical experiences, inviting readers to reconsider the boundaries of science and spirituality.
Focusing on psychical research, Sir William Fletcher Barrett dedicated over fifty years to exploring various psychic phenomena. His extensive observations and documentation contributed significantly to the understanding of the spiritual realm, providing evidence for the existence of consciousness beyond physical death. Through his work, Barrett aimed to illuminate the connections between the visible and invisible worlds.
Ever since Descartes saw nature as a vast, interlocking machine and science banished the soul, philosophers have been uncomfortable with this materialistic outlook. Barrett (Irrational Man here looks at the way in which various thinkers have attempted to put the human soul or self in the forefront of their visions of reality. He discusses Leibniz's energized universe of monads, or individual souls, Hegel's blueprint for self-realization as part of the unfolding of the "world spirit" and the existentialists' belief that anxiety and death are personal problems each of us must wrestle with. Unconvinced by modern descriptions of the mind as a computer, Barrett debunks Alan Turing's claim that a future computer could write first-rate poetry; he also refutes behaviorism and Wittgenstein. This short book engages the reader in an open-ended dialogue with major Western thinkers on the central questions of the soul, death and consciousness
The book features Sir William Fletcher Barrett's reflections on his extensive psychical research spanning 50 years. In his reminiscences, he asserts the existence of a spiritual world, the survival of consciousness after death, and the potential for communication with the deceased. Barrett emphasizes the profound nature of the evidence he encountered, which shaped his convictions, while acknowledging the challenge of conveying this understanding to those without similar experiences. His insights offer a compelling exploration of the intersection between science and spirituality.
No other figure in history has played a bigger part in opening the West to Buddhism than the eminent Zen author, D.T. Suzuki, and in this reissue of his best work readers are given the very heart of Zen teaching. Zen Buddhism, which sold more than 125,000 as an Anchor paperback after its publication in 1956, includes a basic historical background as well as a thorough overview of the techniques for Zen practice. Concepts and terminology such as satori, zazen, and koans, as well as the various elements of this philosophy are all given clear explanations. But while Suzuki takes nothing for granted in the reader's understanding of the fundamentals, he does not give a merely rudimentary overview. Each of the essays included here, particularly those on the unconscious mind and the relation of Zen to Western philosophy, go far beyond other sources for their penetrating insights and timeless wisdom. What is most important about D.T. Suzuki's work, however--and what comes across so powerfully in these selections--is his unparalleled ability to communicate the experiential aspect of Zen. The intensity here with which Zen philosophy comes to life is without parallel in the canon of Buddhist literature. Suzuki stands apart from all teachers before or since because of his exceptional ability to eloquently capture in words the seemingly inexpressible essence of Zen.
The book explores the journey of William Barrett, a former skeptic and Professor of Physics, as he conducts an extensive analysis of water dowsing. Initially aiming to debunk the practice, Barrett encounters numerous unexplainable phenomena that challenge his views, leading him to investigate further. His findings suggest that there may be more to dowsing than mere coincidence, offering a compelling perspective on a controversial subject.
The book holds significant value to literature, recognized by scholars and academicians for its contributions. It serves as a vital knowledge resource for future generations. To maintain its authenticity, the print format mirrors the original publication, including any marks or annotations, ensuring the preservation of its true nature.
The book offers a detailed exploration of Bristol's rich history and antiquities, presenting insights into the city's development and cultural significance. This reprint of the original 1789 edition preserves the historical context and valuable information, making it a vital resource for those interested in Bristol's heritage and evolution over time.
