Being and the Cosmos

"Robert Wood's writing uniquely combines phenomenological insight, metaphysical depth, wide historical learning, and familiarity with contemporary thought. In these essays he brings his talents to bear on the fundamental question of the human being's place in the cosmos, countering reductionist and deconstructionist tendencies with an articulation of Being that opens up the question of the character of the Whole. He engages recent work in physics, biology, and neurophysiology as he argues for an evolutionary view of intellect as the cosmic telos. The result is a very important book."—Richard Velkley, Celia Scott Weatherhead Professor of Philosophy, Tulane University

"An eloquent and poetic summary of the lessons learned and insights derived from a long and distinguished career of teaching and philosophical reflection. It is also the capstone of a life well lived. Readers will find this book quietly and thoughtfully inspiring."—Review of Metaphysics

"Being and the Cosmos presents a compelling framework for bringing together the metaphysical ground of thought and human action. It provides a serious riposte to materialist reductionism and suggests an alternative phenomenology that takes a scientific perspective seriously, while maintaining that speculative holism which gives sense to the regional pursuits of science. Wood has presented a dense argumentation here that deserves serious attention and further unfolding."—Reviews in Religion and Theology