Conquest of Abundance

More about the book

From flea bites to galaxies, Paul Feyerabend celebrated the sensory and intellectual richness of existence while acknowledging that human senses can only grasp a fraction of it. He posits that this limitation is a blessing, suggesting that a superconscious being would be overwhelmed rather than wise. This theme of managing experience is central to Feyerabend's work, which he was developing at the time of his death in 1994. The manuscript, compiled from his drafts, notes, and lectures, presents a captivating exploration filled with insights and the charm that characterizes his writing. Feyerabend examines how we strive to explain and predict the mysteries of the natural world, focusing on our tendency to abstract experiences and reduce wonder to formulas. He discusses the implications of these efforts, framing the "conquest of abundance" as a vital aspect of Western civilization's history and identity. Esteemed figures like Richard Rorty and Nancy Maull have praised Feyerabend's unique and adventurous approach to philosophy, highlighting his brilliant style and profound knowledge. This work serves as a testament to his thought, reflecting the richness of the world it seeks to understand.