Written shortly after his retirement from Harvard, Modes of Thought (1938) is Whitehead’s last book and a wonderful meditation on various themes at the center for his theopoetic process philosophy. The book is written in more accessible language, but not in a way that loses profound philosophical depth. Here we find some of Whitehead’s final reflections on the aims of philosophy and its relation to science, poetry, mysticism, and the health of civilization:

“If you like to phrase it so, philosophy is mystical. For mysticism is direct insight into depths as yet unspoken. But the purpose of philosophy is to rationalize mysticism: not by explaining it away, but by the introduction of novel verbal characterizations, rationally coordinated. Philosophy is akin to poetry, and both of them seek to express that ultimate good sense which we term civilization” (Epilogue, 174).

Over the course of eight weeks, we will engage in a relaxed and communal reading of Modes of Thought, focusing on thoughtful discussion. Each week, we will explore key chapter themes as they relate to core convictions of Whitehead mature thought. Students are encouraged to take notes while reading and come to each session ready to share comments, questions, and quotes from the text.

WHICH VERSION ARE WE READING?

Students are required to purchase a specific version of Modes of Thought published by ‎The Free Press University Press, 1968. This version is available here.

WHAT’S THE READING SCHEDULE?

• Week 1: Preface & Lecture I: “Importance” (8/6)

• Week 2: Lecture II: “Expression” (8/13)

• Week 3: Lecture III: “Understanding” (8/20)

• Week 4: Lecture IV: “Perspective” (8/27)

• Week 5: Lecture V: “Forms of Process” (9/3)

• Week 6: Lecture VI: “Civilized Universe” (9/10)

• Week 7: Lecture VII: “Nature Lifeless” (9/17)

• Week 8: Lecture VIII: “Nature Alive” & Epilogue: “The Aim of Philosophy” (9/24)

WHAT DO STUDENTS GET?

All students will receive copies of the recorded discussions for review.

Note: Reading group limited to 15 students.