The Philosophy of George Santayana – A Deep Dive into Naturalism and Aesthetic Idealism | The Library of Living Philosophers | Volume II, 1940, 1951 | Review, Analysis & Summary

The Philosophy of George Santayana, edited by Paul Arthur Schilpp, is the second installment in the esteemed Library of Living Philosophers series. Released in 1940, this edition delivers an in-depth and critical analysis of George Santayana's philosophical perspective, featuring his insights into metaphysics, ethics, aesthetics, and religion. Like other volumes in this series, it possesses a philosophical autobiography, a compilation of Santayana's significant writings, evaluations by prominent contemporary philosophers, and Santayana's thorough responses.
This volume is regarded as a significant intellectual achievement that portrays Santayana not only as a philosopher known for his poetic articulation but as a rigorous thinker rooted in naturalistic realism and spiritual richness.

About George Santayana

George Santayana (1863–1952) was a philosopher, poet, essayist, and novelist of Spanish-American descent. Although he spent a significant portion of his academic career in the United States, his perspective was unmistakably European. He is most recognized for his writings on materialism, humanism, skepticism, and aesthetic idealism. Santayana’s graceful writing style and literary approach rendered his philosophy accessible and impactful well beyond academic settings.
His notable quotes, such as "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it," have become entrenched in cultural and intellectual discussions even to this day.

Overview of the Book

The Philosophy of George Santayana encompasses:

• A philosophical autobiography titled "Persons and Places," wherein Santayana ponders his life, intellectual evolution, and personal reflections.
• A selection of key excerpts from his principal works, which include The Life of Reason, Skepticism and Animal Faith, and Realms of Being.
• Over twenty critical and interpretative essays authored by prominent scholars and contemporaries.
• A comprehensive response section where Santayana addresses each critic in depth.

This blend offers readers a profound understanding of both Santayana's perspectives and the evaluations made by his contemporaries, fostering an ongoing discourse that transcends philosophical categories.

Key Themes in Santayana's Philosophy

Naturalism and Skepticism

Santayana promoted a naturalistic perspective, positing that human consciousness emerges from biological and environmental influences. Concurrently, he adopted a skeptical approach towards knowledge claims that extend beyond direct experience.

The Realms of Being

In one of his most innovative metaphysical theories, Santayana defines four distinct "realms": Essence, Matter, Truth, and Spirit. This multilayered ontology seeks to harmonize idealism with realism in a uniquely lyrical and conceptual framework.

Philosophy of Religion

Although Santayana was personally nonreligious, he valued religion as a symbolic representation of human ideals. He regarded religious traditions as essential cultural narratives that possess moral and aesthetic significance, even in the absence of any metaphysical veracity.

Aesthetic Humanism

Santayana believed that art and beauty play a crucial role in human fulfillment. His conviction regarding the civilizing power of aesthetics is linked to his humanistic principles and an emphasis on the development of taste and wisdom.

Morality and the Life of Reason

For Santayana, morality does not stem from divine edicts but from rational contemplation and social cohesion. His work, The Life of Reason, elaborates on how reason informs life across various realms, including art, science, religion, and society.

Contributors and Critics in the Volume

Prominent contributors to this volume include:

• John Dewey, who provides a pragmatic viewpoint on Santayana’s metaphysical naturalism.
• C. I. Lewis – engaging with Santayana's epistemology
• Ernest Nagel, Ralph Barton Perry, and Roy Wood Sellars – confronting topics in ethics, realism, and logic

Each participant contests, elucidates, or builds upon Santayana's views, compelling him to reiterate or refine his thoughts in his comprehensive responses, a hallmark of the Library of Living Philosophers format.

Santayana’s Responses – A Philosophical Exchange

The section featuring Santayana's responses in this volume stands out as one of the most introspective and articulate within the LLP series. His demeanor is respectful, intellectual, and infused with literary references. He advocates for his concepts not only through reasoning but also through an artistic approach—providing clarity and poetic depth to his metaphysical perspective.
These responses provide unique insight into a philosopher’s personal defense of his life's work, rendering the volume essential for earnest philosophy scholars.

Legacy and Significance

The Philosophy of George Santayana remains one of the most intellectually rewarding and stylistically refined texts in the LLP series. It holds significance for:

• Researchers of American and Continental philosophy
• Learners investigating aesthetic humanism or secular spiritualism
• Philosophers exploring metaphysical realism and poetic form

Santayana’s blend of skepticism, artistry, and profound metaphysical inquiry continues to engage contemporary audiences seeking wisdom beyond simple logic.