Solitude: A Philosophical Encounter

By Philip Koch

Book Overview

What is the proper place of solitude in human existence? Some philosophers have claimed that solitude is our truest, most ultimate metaphysically deepest state of being. Others have maintained the... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0812692438
• ISBN13: 9780812692433
• Release Date: January 1999
• Publisher: Open Court
• Length: 390 Pages
• Weight: 1.22 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.9" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

INCREDIBLE INSIGHTS ON SOLITUDE

Koch's book goes a long way in laying out the foundation, framework, and typology for the study of solitude. This book emerges after years of contemplation, and this reflection shows in his careful analysis of solitude. I teach a university course on restorative solitude (solitudecourse.com) and I use Koch's book as the class textbook. The writing is tense, the reflections are profound, the depth is provocative. He flushes out the solitude benefits, but still argues that it is not merely a vehicle to restore us to return to frenetic lifestyles--but rather, solitude is a goal unto itself. His concepts help provide a language for expressing a topic impoverished by language. He steps lightly on the spiritual and religious perspectives, staying more focused on the philisophical. This focus is rather refreshing given the heavily religious/spiritual slant of most texts on solitude. My students also enjoy this book and find it very provocative. It leans toward the academic which is also appreciated given the heavily anectodal materials already published. If you're serious about the study of solitude--this is a must text.