In this lucid and probing study, Robert C. Miner argues that Giambattista Vico (1668-1744) was the architect of a subversive, genealogical approach to modernity. Miner documents the genesis of Vico's stance toward modernity in the first phase of his thought. Through close examination of his early writings, centering on Vico's critique of Descartes and his elaboration of the 'verum-factum' principle, Vico, Genealogist of Modernity reveals that Vico strives to acknowledge the technical advances of modernity while unmasking its origins in human pride.

About the Author

Robert C. Miner is professor of philosophy at Boston College.

Reviews

"Miner has given us nourishing food for thought, and this work deserves attention, not least for Miner's meticulous scholarship. . . . It should . . . rekindle an interest in this engaging, often neglected Neapolitan thinker." -Modern Age

"Miner's book rests on a thorough knowledge of Vico's work. . . . [It] offers original insight and understanding into a seminal, if occasionally neglected, figure and is therefore highly recommended." -Library Journal

"Miner contends that reading Vico to understand his critique of secular modernity is the key to discovering him. His text is rich in probing questions and comparisons. . . . His style is clear and interesting and ends with helpful notes, bibliography, and index." -Choice

"[M]any novel and positive insights... Chief of these is the way he incorporates Vico's Catholicism into his analysis of Vico's thought. He is really the first Vico scholar to try this kind of synthesis in a systematic way. ... he deserves great credit for calling attention to the New Science, and Vico's thinking as a whole, as an important episode in the study of the history of ethics and religion." -New Vico Studies

"... written with ease and enthusiasm." -Renaissance Quarterly

"...well structured and stimulating." -Philosophy in Review

"...interesting interpretation of the significance of Vico's thought...." -The Sixteenth Century Journal

Book Information
ISBN 9780268034689
Author Robert C. Miner
Format Hardback
Page Count 232
Imprint University of Notre Dame Press
Publisher University of Notre Dame Press
Weight(grams) 481g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 14mm