The State of Philosophy: An Invitation to a Reading in Three Parts of Stanley Cavell's the Claim of Reason

The State of Philosophy is the first book-length text on Stanley Cavell's The Claim of Reason. It demonstrates the developed line of argument in The Claim of Reason and uncovers the unity of its presentation. In contrast to many current writings on Cavell, The State of Philosophy shows the necessity and value of reading The Claim of Reason as a whole rather than in isolated bits or parts. Richard Fleming develops the general outlines and identifies the organizing concepts of the work, thereby producing a context for fruitful rereading or first whole reading of the text. In his text, Fleming promotes a care and concern for Stanley Cavell's style of philosophizing, with the desire that Cavell's interpretation of the world, others, and ourselves become a part of the ongoing philosophical conversation. He shows that Cavell's writing style, which is so difficult for many, and his frequent use of indirect modes of presentation are a necessary ingredient of his ordinary language method and his quest for self-knowledge.
Fleming does not shy away from questions about The Claim of Reason, and his book is populated with numerous voices that produce critical and continual reflection on what Cavell says and why he says it. The unique endnotes of the text, whether read in conjunction with Fleming's discussion or in isolation, present different voices and perspectives on Cavell's writings and produce a provocative encounter with The Claim of Reason and its secondary literature.
The State of Philosophy, like Cavell's own works, is a text that will appeal to scholars from disciplines beyond philosophy. Literary theorists and critics will be engaged by the discussions of the relationships between philosophy and literature. Humanists will find the questions about the nature of human beings and their lives with others inviting. The extensive discussions of Wittgenstein's vision of language will provoke linguists and those with interest in the nature of language, while the concerns with autobiography and confession will engage those who study romantic literature and theology. Fleming's artistic quotations and musical metaphors open Cavell's text to those who work in the arts.
By carefully presenting the argument of The Claim of Reason and attending to its modes of expression and many voices, Fleming demonstrates Cavell's unique interest in skepticism and the traditional struggles it has produced for philosophical work. The State of Philosophy helps the reader understand the general philosophical conclusion of The Claim of Reason and shows how Cavell has taken a "step beyond" Wittgenstein and given (especially Anglo-American) philosophy new direction.