Overview

Blaise Pascal (1623–1662) made important contributions to mathematics, the theory of probability, and several scientific fields, was one of the inventors of the first mathematical calculator, and was also a deeply religious thinker who grappled with issues concerning the existence of God, the possibility of human salvation, and the sinfulness of human life. His famous Wager is often discussed, but there is much else of interest and relevance in his thought which remains undiscovered. This book provides an accessible yet detailed account of Pascal's philosophy and how it applies to important issues facing all of us today, as well as novel interpretations of Pascal's ideas. It will stimulate and challenge anyone who is interested in the role of the heart in rationality, human nature, our relation to reality and our individual and collective purpose, and the underexplored thoughts of one of history's greatest geniuses.

Full Product Details

9781009321440

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Reviews

'Avnur delivers a splendid answer to his title question, generating many unexpected insights about Pascal's relevance to contemporary philosophical debates and social problems. His prose is clear and graceful and his argumentation careful and subtle. His affection for Pascal is contagious.' J. L. Schellenberg, Mount Saint Vincent University

Author Information

Yuval Avnur is author of The Skeptic and the Veridicalist (Cambridge, 2023) and numerous essays on epistemology and religion, and co-editor (with Roger Ariew) of The Blackwell Companion to Pascal (forthcoming).

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