This book is the culmination of MacMullan's research on a broader conception of American philosophy. The expanded notion of “American” philosophy not only makes sense, but it is one of the most promising present ventures in dealing with the lives and problems of people across the Americas.

The book opens up an important dialogue between the American pragmatist traditions and Latin American philosophers that have been ignored, such as Vaz Ferreira, Pedro Albizu Campos, and Risieri Frondizi. More importantly, it introduces the perspective of these philosophers on both the virtues and the vices of the United States. This is the much-needed critical perspective that the humanities should encourage today.

This book is an example of what true Inter-American philosophy should be. It is a demonstration of the largely unexplored benefits of “rubbing” philosophical sister traditions that have much in common and much to learn from their differences. MacMullan masterfully establishes connections and bridges between American traditions and opens the possibility of new avenues of future research. This is an important contribution to scholarship and of interest to a wide audience concerned about the present and future of the Americas.

Gregory Pappas, Texas A&M University

Terrance MacMullan’s book is an essential work in the growing canon of Inter-American philosophy. He builds a foundational bridge that demonstrates not only how philosophers from North and Latin America can be put into dialogue, but also that they must be put into a wider conversation with one another in order for us to be able to appreciate fully the limits and promise of this American life. At a time in history during which we face so many crises, MacMullan articulates the rich resources of Inter-American philosophy in a way to give us with existential meaning and social hope, while also warning us about paths of conquest and injustice that have led us to our despair today. Scholars of American philosophy will have to engage with this book in order to understand how classic figures such as Addams, Dewey, Royce, and DuBois are tested and tempered by the American vistas of Campos, Vasconcelos, Marti, and Anzaludua.

José-Antonio Orosco, Oregon State University

For over 500 years, ideas and cultures—as much as human bodies—have been migrating in the Americas. With passion and grace, Terrance MacMullan makes a compelling case for a wider and ever-fluid vision of “American philosophy” that can help to restore democratic ways of living. This is an utterly timely, creative, and forward-thinking book.

Christopher D. Tirres, DePaul University