37 pages • 1 hour read
George BerkeleyA Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1710A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge, George Berkeley presents his philosophy of immaterialism, asserting that nothing exists outside of a mind's perception. He critiques contemporary empiricists like John Locke and David Hume, arguing that abstract thought and belief in independent matter lead to philosophical confusion. Berkeley claims that reality consists of ideas perceived by minds, primarily God's mind, and thus objects do not exist without perception. He aims to counter skepticism and atheism, reinforcing the presence and order of a creator spirit, God, and aligns his viewpoints with common sense, science, and Christianity.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
George Berkeley's A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge offers groundbreaking idealist philosophy, arguing that reality consists solely of minds and their ideas. Critics praise its innovative perspective and clarity, though some find the arguments abstract and challenging. Essential reading for students of philosophy.
Who Should Read A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge?
A reader who enjoys A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge by George Berkeley is likely passionate about philosophy, especially epistemology and metaphysics. They appreciate intricate arguments about the nature of reality and perception. Similar readers might enjoy Descartes' Meditations on First Philosophy and Hume's An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding.