The Philosophy of Paul Weiss – Metaphysics, Individuality, and the American Philosophical Spirit | The Library of Living Philosophers | Volume XXIII, 1995 | Review, Analysis & Summary

The Philosophy of Paul Weiss, compiled by Lewis Edwin Hahn, is the eighteenth installment in the distinguished Library of Living Philosophers series, released in 1989. This extensive collection honors Paul Weiss (1901–2002), an American thinker celebrated for his ambitious comprehensive metaphysics, focus on individuality, and advocacy for the integration of philosophy.
In contrast to many of his peers who emphasized linguistic or analytic scrutiny, Weiss argued that philosophy ought to encompass the entirety of reality, addressing themes of existence, values, individuality, and divinity. This volume features his philosophical autobiography, excerpts from his works, critical analyses by notable philosophers, and Weiss’s responses, providing a unique perspective on a vibrant, realist, and thoroughly holistic philosophical framework.

Who Was Paul Weiss?

Paul Weiss was an American metaphysician and the co-founder of The Review of Metaphysics, recognized as one of the 20th century's fervent proponents of systematic philosophy. He obtained his Ph. D. from Harvard under the guidance of Alfred North Whitehead, consistently asserting that philosophy should encompass both comprehensiveness and specificity.
His principal contributions include:

• A systematic metaphysics grounded in realism and pluralism
• A focus on individuality as a vital ontological category
• Insights into art, religion, politics, and personal identity

Engagement with classical philosophical motifs articulated through a contemporary American lens
His notable works include:

• Reality (1938)
• Modes of Being (1958)
• The God We Seek (1964)
• Creative Ventures (1987)
• Surrogates (1991)

Contents of the Volume

In line with the established format of the Library of Living Philosophers, this volume is divided into four primary sections:

1. Philosophical Autobiography

Within a profoundly personal and intellectually stimulating narrative, Weiss contemplates his evolution as a philosopher. He reflects on his experiences with Whitehead, his fascination with metaphysical queries overlooked by prevailing philosophical thought, and his mission to broaden philosophy's scope in modern discourse.

2. Selections from Weiss’s Writings

The excerpts illuminate the essence of Weiss's metaphysical perspective. He delves into:

• The essence of being and existence
• The categories of reality: individual, universal, potential, actual
• Concepts of freedom and moral responsibility
• A real God, distinct from conventional theological notions

His writing style is assertive, independent, and laden with ontological profundity, offering an expansive view of human experience and ultimate reality.

3. Critical Essays

This section includes varied evaluations of Weiss's system by eminent philosophers, such as:

• John E. Smith – assessing metaphysical structure
• Henry B. Veatch – exploring realism and ethics

Contributions from Eugene Fontinell, Jules Vuillemin, George Klubertanz, Robert Sokolowski, and others
Key issues addressed:

• The significance of systematic metaphysics in a disjointed era
• Discussions surrounding individuality, freedom, and order
• Weiss's perspectives on art, history, and transcendence
• Contrasts with Whitehead, Peirce, and Royce

4. Paul Weiss’s Replies to Critics

Weiss provides vigorous and insightful responses to each critic. His replies showcase a philosopher secure in his framework, yet receptive to enhancement. He ardently advocates for the breadth of metaphysical inquiry, critiques tendencies toward reductionism in philosophy, and reaffirms his conviction in the concrete, dynamic, and spiritual nature of reality.

Key Themes in Paul Weiss’s Philosophy

1. Metaphysical Realism

Weiss advocated for a tangible, structured realm that exists independently of human thought, challenging both the linguistic shift and relativistic views. He posited that metaphysics is the key to understanding the fundamental order of reality.

2. Individuality and Particularity

To Weiss, true reality consists of individuals—not generalized concepts or sensory experiences. Each individual is unique, ever-changing, and integrated into a broader order.

3. Systematic Philosophy

Dismissing piecemeal methods, Weiss sought to create a comprehensive system that embraced all dimensions of being, encompassing the natural, social, ethical, and divine aspects.

4. The Role of God

Though his understanding of God diverges from conventional theology, Weiss regarded God as the ultimate source of intelligibility and creativity—an entity separate from the universe yet essential for its understanding.

5. Philosophy as Creative and Constructive

Weiss viewed philosophy as more than mere analysis; it represents a creative endeavor, constructing systems, addressing challenges, and influencing culture.

Why This Volume Matters

The Philosophy of Paul Weiss is crucial for:

• Students exploring American philosophy, metaphysics, and realism
• Researchers focused on systematic frameworks and ontological classifications
• Philosophers engaged with concepts of freedom, individuality, and the divine
• Anyone interested in a daring, all-encompassing alternative to analytic or postmodern philosophies

This volume presents a unique depiction of a philosopher profoundly devoted to truth, clarity, and the magnificence of philosophical inquiry.