Heidegger Explained: From Phenomenon to Thing

HEIDEGGER EXPLAINED: FROM PHENOMENON TO THING is a philosophy coverage recommended for both high school and college-level collections strong in introductory philosophy. By understanding Heidegger some of the foundation theories of the 20th century are more accessible - and equally accessible is an introduction which offers up a lively survey of all of Heidegger's works, avoiding confusing terminology to provide a more inviting coverage of his key works and concepts. An outstanding reference for any introductory philosophy section. Diane C. Donovan California Bookwatch

Never mind the PoMo bollocks - here's the real deal. Be astonished as Dr. Harman analyzes and interprets Heidegger without obfuscation! Veteran philosophers, Heideggerians, Continentalists, Anglophiles, along with novices and newbies alike will find a very worthwhile read that takes Heidegger as a pointer in a direction which brings philosophy out of the various intellectual ghettos and back to life. In language at once pithy, moving, and substantive, Harman delivers a reading of Heidegger which neither forgives his sins nor ignores his great contribution to philosophy - bringing sublime, careful thoughtfulness to the terrible beauty of reality. Of all the books which attempt an introductory overview of Heidegger, this is the only one I've read that goes as far in humanizing the man with new details of his personal mistakes and challenges, while also doing a superior job explaining all his key concepts in succinct, pithy, well-written English statements. The concepts are unfolded chronologically along with the basic narrative of Heidegger's career. One other thing that should be added: Harman brings a different perspective to Heidegger which is neither that of the fawning Heideggerian imitator, nor that of the belittling, condescending critic. He is an admirer of Heidegger's originality with a unique and particularly compelling view of how Heidegger should be understood as an important point of departure for philosophy.