Despite their conceptual allergy to vegetal life, philosophers have used
germination, growth, blossoming, fruition, reproduction, and decay as
illustrations of abstract concepts; mentioned plants in passing as the
natural backdrops for dialogues, letters, and other compositions; spun
elaborate allegories out of flowers, trees, and even grass; and
recommended appropriate medicinal, dietary, and aesthetic approaches to
select species of plants.
In this book, Michael Marder illuminates the vegetal centerpieces and
hidden kernels that have powered theoretical discourse for centuries.
Choosing twelve botanical specimens that correspond to twelve
significant philosophers, he recasts the development of philosophy
through the evolution of human and plant relations. A philosophical
history for the postmetaphysical age, The Philosopher's Plant reclaims
the organic heritage of human thought. With the help of vegetal images,
examples, and metaphors, the book clears a path through philosophy's
tangled roots and dense undergrowth, opening up the discipline to all
readers.