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Eric Thomas Weber, written in sharpie.
Cover of America's Public Philosopher, featuring a photo of John Dewey.

America’s Public Philosopher

Description

John Dewey was America’s greatest public philosopher. A prolific and influential writer for both scholarly and general audiences, he stands out for the remarkable breadth of his contributions. Dewey was a founder of a distinctly American philosophical tradition, pragmatism, and he spoke out widely on the most important questions of his day. He was a progressive thinker whose deep commitment to democracy led him to courageous stances on issues such as war, civil liberties, and racial, class, and gender inequalities.

This book gathers the clearest and most powerful of Dewey’s public writings and shows how they continue to speak to the challenges we face today. An introductory essay and short introductions to each of the texts discuss the current relevance and significance of Dewey’s work and legacy. The book includes forty-six essays on topics such as democracy in the United States, political power, education, economic justice, science and society, and philosophy and culture. These essays inspire optimism for the possibility of a more humane public and political culture, in which citizens share in the pursuit of lifelong education through participation in democratic life. America’s Public Philosopher reveals John Dewey as a powerful example for scholars seeking to address a wider audience and a much-needed voice for all readers in search of intellectual and moral leadership.

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Columbia University Press
  • Publication Date: December 2020
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 352 pages

WHERE TO BUY:

  • In these troubled times, Eric Thomas Weber has compiled a magnificent set of essays by John Dewey, the preeminent American public philosopher of the twentieth century. With the help of Weber’s commentaries, all Americans will be able to see how Dewey still speaks to us today, with wisdom and urgency.
    Dr. Elizabeth Anderson.
    Dr. Elizabeth Anderson
  • In this collection Eric Weber presents expertly curated essays by one of America’s great public intellectuals. John Dewey’s insights into the core issues of American life, then as now, are as fresh today as when they were first published. They provide ample evidence of his continuing relevance for our exceptional time.
    Dr. Larry A. Hickman.
    Dr. Larry A. Hickman
  • An illuminating, succinct introduction that amplifies Dewey’s interest in society as well as his hopeful idealism and belief in the divine. . . . Highly recommended.
    Logo for Choice Reviews.
    Choice Reviews

More Books

A Culture of Justice

READ MORE

Uniting Mississippi

READ MORE

Democracy and Leadership

READ MORE
Dr. Eric Thomas Weber in his office at the University of Kentucky. Photo by Beth Goins, 2025.
Office, (c) Beth Goins, 2025.

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  • Home
  • About
    • Events
    • Curriculum Vitae
    • Press Kit
    • Headshots
    • Photos
  • Books
    • A Culture of Justice
    • America’s Public Philosopher
    • Uniting Mississippi
    • Democracy and Leadership
    • Morality, Leadership, and Public Policy
    • Rawls, Dewey, and Constructivism
  • Blog
  • Contact
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