Ralph Barton Perry

Ralph Barton Perry
Ralph Barton Perry (1876–1957) was an influential American philosopher and educator, best known for his work in pragmatism and value theory. He was a student of William James and later wrote an authoritative biography of him titled "The Thought and Character of William James." Perry's own philosophical contributions include the development of a theory called "interest theory" in works like "General Theory of Value," where he emphasized the role of interest in determining value. He was a professor at Harvard University, where he shaped many philosophical debates during the first half of the 20th century.

Author's Books:


PREFACE In an essay on "The Problem of Philosophy at the Present Time," Professor Edward Caird says that "philosophy is not a first venture into a new field of thought, but the rethinking of a secular and religious consciousness which has been developed, in the main, independently of philosophy." If there be any inspiration and originality in this book, they are due to my great desire... more...

CHAPTER I MORALITY AS THE ORGANIZATION OF LIFE In the words with which this book is inscribed, Bishop Butler conveys with directness and gravity the conviction that morality is neither a mystery nor a convention, but simply an observance of the laws of provident living. "Things and actions are what they are, and the consequences of them will be what they will be: why then should we desire to be... more...