Human Knowledge: Its Scope and Limits

Bound in finely woven green cloth strapped brightly in gilt on the spine. With a bit of foxing to the top edge of the front endpaper and the rear endpaper, courtesy of the dust jacket flaps. Otherwise, very good and tight throughout. With a tiny ding at the top of the front boards. In a complete dust jacket with the price of 18s. net. and the WWII map printed on the verse of the. jacket. The jacket is printed on the verso of a map produced by the War Office during the Second World War (due to the post-war paper shortage in England). Soiling to the rear panel. With some light chipping to the top and bottom of the spine ends; and a small stain at the center of the spine panel. The WWII map is labelled "W.O First Edition; Hind. Second Edition." Sheet 22/XIV. Bertrand Russell explores the nature, sources, and limitations of human understanding. Published in 1948, this comprehensive work addresses how we acquire knowledge and the reliability of various methods. Russell examines scientific knowledge, contrasting it with philosophical inquiry, and delves into the principles of mathematics and logic. He argues that while empirical knowledge is vital, it is inherently uncertain and limited by human perception and the tools we use. Russell also critiques the assumption that human knowledge can ever be complete or wholly accurate, emphasising the importance of scepticism and ongoing inquiry. He suggests that acknowledging the limits of our knowledge can lead to more robust scientific and philosophical practices. Overall, the book is a profound investigation into epistemology, encouraging critical thinking and a cautious approach to claims of certainty. (Atkinson). A first edition, first printing with "First Published in 1948" on the copyright page.…