The Library of Living Philosophers volumes are always a treat and this one is no exception—complete with a substantial autobiography, twenty-six critical essays, in-depth responses, a detailed index, and an exhaustive bibliography of Putnam's work (by John Shook). It has been long in the making, some contributions dating back to 2002.
Hilary Putnam (1926–2016) has left many lasting marks. The editors of this volume have done an admirable job of providing a broad and well-balanced coverage of important strands of Putnam's work in logic, philosophy of mathematics, philosophy of science, epistemology, philosophy of language, religious philosophy, and ethics. The cast of contributors is thoughtfully chosen, and stellar. Other collections on Putnam remain valuable, but this one is surely more comprehensive and definitive.1
Putnam's own input is very considerable. He has provided a careful and detailed response, or at least a warm and respectful one, to each commentator. His engaging...
