Book Details

• Author: Bertrand Russell

• Publisher: Routledge

• Language: English

• Binding: Paperback

• ISBN: 9781041037217

• Pages: 268

• Release Date: 09-01-2025

About The Book

The Analysis of Mind is a pivotal work by Bertrand Russell, written during one of the most turbulent periods of his life. Initially started in 1918 while he was imprisoned in London for his opposition to World War I, and completed in 1921 in Peking (now Beijing) where he was giving lectures at the National University, this book offers a deep dive into Russell's philosophical thoughts on the nature of the mind.

In this influential text, Russell presents a novel approach to the understanding of the mind, combining an eclectic mix of William James' 'neutral monism', the emerging ideas of behaviorism, and Russell's own groundbreaking causal theory of meaning. These ideas formed the foundation for much of his later philosophical work.

Written in Russell's characteristic sharp prose, The Analysis of Mind addresses fundamental questions about the mind, including the nature of desire and feeling, the complex relationship between psychological and physical laws, the role of sensations and mental images, the mechanics of memory, the concept of belief, and the workings of emotions and willpower.

This book remains an essential read for those interested in understanding the development of Russell's philosophy and the philosophical underpinnings of psychology and the mind. It is a foundational text for anyone delving into modern discussions on consciousness and the philosophy of mind.