ABSTRACT

In this chapter we sketch how Goodman conceives of the purpose, aim and method of philosophy. We also indicate the way in which his thoughts on seemingly unrelated matters, such as art and induction, are connected to form a coherent whole. Few philosophers of the twentieth century have been as infl uential as Goodman, particularly across such diverse fi elds as the philosophy of art and the philosophy of science. What we hope to show is that this is due not only to an idiosyncratic coincidence of interests, but also to Goodman’s account of philosophy.