This companion volume to the ten volumes of the Presidential Addresses of the American Philosophical Association 1901-2000 offers both a retrospective and introspective survey of presidential addresses delivered to the APA during the twentieth century. It documents and analyzes the extraordinary diversity of philosophical thought, as well as the maturation and professionalization of philosophy as a discipline in American academia.The first ten chapters each focus on one decade of the twentieth century, pointing out prominent topics and common themes, and discussing the philosophical schools and movements that informed them. The next nine chapters are topical essays, each centering on a philosophical issue or area. Of special interest is Nicholas Rescher's chapter on the way the possibility of philosophical progress was a frequent matter raised for discussion in presidential addresses.

Knowing that we are finite, how can we live to the fullest? Philosopher George Santayana suggested 'spirituality' enables us to enjoy what we have. This book clarifies and extends Santayana's account of spirituality, while suggesting how the detachment of spirituality can relieve human suffering, enrich our lives, and make us better human beings.