German Idealism represents one of the most intense and ambitious periods in the history of philosophy. It was the time when the possibility of an alternative to both empiricism and rationalism was explored, and the era when comprehensive system building took place.

Discussing this highly visible topic in contemporary philosophical research and debate, this collection presents a timely assessment of the philosophical ideas and critical reactions brought about by such an important period. The set includes a new introduction by the editor, smaller section introductions that explore and contextualise the main themes of the selections included, and an index, which allows the reader to trace their own alternative themes.