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Philosophy Collections Policy: Qualitative Summary

Qualitative Summary

Most of the principal areas such as Greek philosophy, medieval philosophy, modern European and American philosophy, metaphysics and aesthetics are collected at an instructional support level, indicating that the collection is adequate to support most graduate instruction and sustained independent study.

The history of philosophy is particularly well-developed, reflecting its importance for the field as a whole. A significant portion of the material on Greek philosophy as well as the medieval period is located at Campion.

Holdings for the modern period (post-1600) emphasize western European and Anglo-American philosophy. Major figures such as Hume, Wittgenstein and Kant are well-represented in definitive collected works, supported by a wide body of critical and analytical material. The later modern period is also extensively collected. Coverage of contemporary philosophy is more selective but leading writers such as Buber, Dewey, Gadamer and Maritain are collected in depth. The works of 'emerging' philosophers, although not neglected, are added as identified and at a lesser rate.

There is a significant body of material on ethical theory, much of it relatively recent. The social and political dimensions of philosophy are also well-covered; the aesthetics collection is strong.

The collection on the philosophy of particular disciplines is a good one, but not all are equally detailed; the philosophy of science is the largest numerically. The collection for the philosophy of religion and history is substantial.