Abstract
THE manuscript generally, but inaptly, called "Berkeley's Commonplace Book" is a document of unique interest in philosophical literature. Berkeley took his B.A. at Trinity College, Dublin, in 1704 at the age of nineteen. In 1709 and 1710 he published his "New Theory of Vision" and his "Principles of Human Knowledge", the two works on which his philosophical fame has always rested. Berkeley's ideas were novel, but very clear and articulate, and skilfully argued in these books. The only thinkers to compare with him, who advanced so far so quickly, are Descartes and Hume. It is most fortunate that we can examine the notebook in which he recorded his philosophical reflexions during this short period of intense mental activity. Prof. Luce considers that the notes were written during 1707–8, and that Berkeley probably had before him a preliminary draft of his theories. Thus the "Commonplace Book" shows how his first thoughts were altered and improved until they attained their first published form, never greatly altered alterwards.
Philosophical Commentaries, generally called the Commonplace Book
By George Berkeley, Bishop of Cloyne. An editio diplomatica transcribed and edited with Introduction and Notes by Prof. A. A. Luce. Pp. xlii + 486. (London and Edinburgh: Thomas Nelson and Sons, Ltd., 1944.) 73s. 6d. net.
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RITCHIE, A. Philosophical Commentaries, generally called the Commonplace Book. Nature 154, 380 (1944). https://doi.org/10.1038/154380a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/154380a0