Studies in Logical Theory

A philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. The book presents a collection of studies contributed by members of the Philosophy Department at the University of Chicago, focusing on various aspects of logical theory and its relationship with psychology, judgment, and experience. It delves into the nature of thought, its antecedents, and how judgment plays a central role in the process of knowing. The opening of the work establishes the context of Dewey's exploration into logical theory, emphasizing the derivation of thought from empirical experiences. Dewey outlines the purpose of reflective thinking, which responds to the complexities of life and the need to mediate various experiences through judgment. He critiques existing logical frameworks and contemplates the interplay between unreflective experiences and the rational processes that follow, posing critical questions about the nature of thought and its role in evolving knowledge. This sets the stage for a deeper examination of how thought interacts with its origins and its implications for understanding reality and truth.