The Greatest Contemporary American Philosophers

Philosophy, as a discipline, does not function in a competitive manner. Thus, asking 'who is the greatest philosopher of a particular time or place' is largely subjective. However, we can consider who has had the most significant impact within the profession and beyond. Various contemporary American philosophers stand out as influential figures in the field.

Post-WW2 Generation

Following the monumental events of World War II, a remarkable generation of American philosophers emerged. Notable among them were David Lewis, Donald Davidson, W.V.O. Quine, Hilary Putnam, John Rawls, Robert Nozick, Wilfrid Sellars, and Richard Rorty. These giants of contemporary American philosophy have since passed away, leaving behind a rich legacy of philosophical insights and theories. However, two prominent figures, Saul Kripke and Daniel Dennett, remain active, albeit not as much within the field.

Saul Kripke

At 81, Saul Kripke is still one of the leading figures in contemporary American philosophy. His seminal work, Naming and Necessity, is celebrated as a masterpiece that revolutionized 20th-century philosophy. While Kripke's influence is undeniable, one must consider whether his status as a 'greatest' philosopher extends to contemporary times beyond his masterful contributions.

Active Philosophers

Identifying the greatest contemporary American philosophers becomes more challenging when considering those who are still active in the discipline today. Three prominent names that immediately come to mind are Robert Brandom, Martha Nussbaum, and Elizabeth Anderson. Their impact on contemporary philosophy is extensive, and their work is both influential within the philosophical community and beyond.

Robert Brandom

Robert Brandom, a professor at the University of Pittsburgh, is known for his work in semantics and the philosophy of mind. His approach to analytic philosophy and his contributions to debates about language and intentionality make him a formidable contender for the title of 'greatest contemporary American philosopher.' Brandom's work has a lasting impact on the field, and he continues to influence discussions on the nature of meaning and practical reasoning.

Martha Nussbaum

Martha Nussbaum, a renowned philosopher from the University of Chicago, is celebrated for her work in ethics and welfare theory. Her interdisciplinary approach, combining philosophy with law and social sciences, has significantly shaped contemporary debates on human rights and social justice. Nussbaum's contributions not only benefit the philosophical community but also have a profound impact on legal and policy discussions.

Elizabeth Anderson

Elizabeth Anderson, a distinguished philosopher at the University of Michigan, is recognized for her work in normative ethics, metaphysics, and economics. Her essays and books challenge prevailing economic and ethical theories, offering new perspectives that have influenced various fields. Anderson's insights into race, gender, and justice are particularly influential, making her a key figure in contemporary American philosophy.

Other Influential Philosophers

Saul Kripke is undoubtedly a pivotal figure, and his work in modal logic and philosophy of language remains unparalleled. Similarly, Daniel Dennett, at 79, has a long and distinguished career, marked by his contributions to the philosophy of mind, cognitive science, and artificial intelligence. However, his influence is more about the breadth and accessibility of his ideas, rather than a singular masterpiece comparable to Naming and Necessity.

Ruth Garrett Millikan and Peter van Inwagen

In addition to Brandom, Nussbaum, and Anderson, Ruth Garrett Millikan and Peter van Inwagen are also noteworthy. Millikan is celebrated for her defense of realism and her efforts to 'naturalize' philosophy. Her work builds on the foundations laid by philosophers like W.V.O. Quine, Wilfrid Sellars, and Saul Kripke. Similarly, Peter van Inwagen, known for his contributions to metaphysics, ethics, and the philosophy of mind, offers significant perspectives that are crucial to contemporary American philosophical discourse.

While A. Plantinga and Fred Dretske, both influential professors, are respected in the field, their contributions are more specialized and are viewed as less broad in scope compared to the works of the aforementioned figures.

Conclusion

The field of contemporary American philosophy is rich with influential thinkers. From Saul Kripke's foundational work to the interdisciplinary approaches of Martha Nussbaum and Elizabeth Anderson, the landscape is diverse and dynamic. Each of these philosophers has left an indelible mark on the discipline, contributing to both its theoretical advancements and its practical applications.