The dissertation is a study of the philosophical views of the American thinker John Dewey in the context of the activities of the Metaphysical Club at Johns Hopkins University.
The dissertation provides a thorough analysis of John Dewey’s early publications, encompassing works written and published during his tenure at Johns Hopkins University (1882–1884), as well as those published both before and after this period. This approach allows for a nuanced examination of the evolution of John Dewey’s philosophical ideas over time.
By considering a range of sources, the dissertation not only traces the development of John Dewey’s philosophical teachings but also delves into the broader intellectual context, particularly focusing on the major themes discussed at the meetings of the Metaphysical Club. The inclusion of primary sources, alongside critical literature, enhances the comprehensive nature of the review, providing a
detailed exploration of the intellectual biography of the American thinker.
This analytical framework offers a holistic understanding of John Dewey’s philosophical journey, offering insights into the interconnectedness of his ideas and the intellectual milieu that influenced him. The inclusion of primary sources enriches the dissertation, contributing to a more nuanced and well-rounded exploration of John Dewey’s early intellectual development.
The methodology of historical and philosophical research is based on methods chosen taking into account the specifics of the subject of research. On the one hand, the historical and philosophical aspect of the study of the activities of the Metaphysical Club and its context is taken into account, and on the other hand, the specifics of the study of intellectual biographies of thinkers, their ideas, views, and opinions. Taking into account the specifics of the subject and object of the study, as well as the tasks that are solved in this study, an emphasis was placed on historical and philosophical reconstruction.
The dissertation provides a historical and philosophical study of the peculiarities of the American intellectual environment of the 19th century. The main trends of the intellectual environment were explored using the genre of intellectual history, and biographical historiography, the main philosophical views of American thinkers were explored. Particular attention was paid to the figure of John Dewey and their participation in the activities of the Metaphysical Club at Johns Hopkins University. The history of the Metaphysical Club dates back to the 1880s at Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, which was founded by Charles Sanders
Pierce, it brought together intellectuals, young scientists, students, teachers, public figures, etc. The Metaphysical Club was an association of prominent scientists: Charles Sanders Pierce, William James, Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., and George Sylvester Morris. The dissertation emphasized the special role of George Sylvester Morris, a teacher at Johns Hopkins University, in the development of John Dewey as a philosopher.
John Dewey’s active participation in the Metaphysical Club is welldocumented through records of the club’s meetings and official circulars from Johns Hopkins University. His engagement in the intellectual discussions and the materials from his preserved speeches and articles were thoroughly analyzed. This examination provided insights into the key ideas that John Dewey explored during his time with the Metaphysical Club.
The influence of his colleagues and teachers within the club played a crucial role in shaping John Dewey’s philosophical perspectives. By delving into the content of his speeches and writings from that period, it becomes evident how the intellectual environment of the Metaphysical Club contributed to the development of John Dewey’s philosophical outlook. This exploration not only sheds light on John Dewey’s active involvement in the club but also demonstrates the profound impact that this intellectual community had on the trajectory of his philosophical contributions. The Metaphysical Club served as a platform for the exchange of ideas and intellectual stimulation, significantly influencing John Dewey’s thoughts and shaping the course of his subsequent philosophical endeavors.
