Arthur Prior A Young Progressive

Discover the intriguing intellectual journey of Arthur Prior, New Zealand’s preeminent 20th-century philosopher, in 'Arthur Prior: A Young Progressive'. Authored by Mike Grimshaw and published by Canterbury University Press, this paperback edition delves into Prior’s fascinating transition from aspiring religious journalist to a pioneering philosopher known for founding 'tense logic'. This essential read (152 x 228 mm, 236 pages) encapsulates previously unpublished letters, revealing Prior's theological reflections and progressive thoughts. By exploring his communications with notable figures like Ursula Bethell and Hugh Teague, you gain valuable insights into how diverse influences shaped his philosophies. This collection not only highlights Prior's philosophical evolution but also sheds light on his personal beliefs and intellectual milieu between 1936 to 1941. Perfect for students of philosophy, theology enthusiasts, and anyone intrigued by New Zealand's rich intellectual history, 'Arthur Prior: A Young Progressive' equips you with a profound understanding of a thinker who navigated complex ideas with grace and clarity. Immerse yourself in the letters that document his important shift towards philosophy and experience the inspiring mix of theology and philosophy that defined his early years. Enhance your library with this thoughtful exploration of a crucial figure in philosophical discourse and discover how a young progressive changed the landscape of modern thought.

Author: Mike Grimshaw Publisher: Canterbury University Press
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 152 x 228 mm
Pages: 236
Publication Date: 31-10-2018

Arthur Prior (1914-69), the founder of ‘tense logic', is regarded as New Zealand's greatest 20th-century philosopher. It is commonly believed that the philosopher J.N.D. Findlay lured a young Prior away from theology and his training for the ministry to the world of philosophy. However, as Prior’s letters to the poet Ursula Bethell and to his communist cousin Hugh Teague now make clear, he did not simply abandon theological study in order to immerse himself in philosophy - nor does it seem that it was a matter of his disbelieving in theology one minute and believing in philosophy the next. Until World War II, and, it appears, for a time afterwards, Prior seriously considered a career as a religious journalist, especially when travelling and living on the Continent and in England with his first wife, Clare Hunter. During these years, Prior wrote widely on theology and contemporary Christianity. In his correspondence with Ursula Bethell - who called him one of her ‘young progressives’ - and Hugh Teague, Prior discusses in detail his religious and theological thought and his personal beliefs and influences, including his shift from formal theological study into a world of journalism and philosophy. These previously unknown letters, which cover the years from 1936 to 1941 and his time in Dunedin, Wellington, France and London, chronicle a substantial part of a fascinating period in Prior’s development, both theologically and philosophically. Prior’s letters have been transcribed and annotated for this volume by early Prior scholar Mike Grimshaw. An essay by Mike Grimshaw and an introduction by Prior expert Jack Copeland provide further context, including a brief introduction to tense logic.