* Addresses trends such as vitalism, neo-Kantianism, existentialism, Marxism and feminism * Presents concise biographies of the influential philosophers who shaped these movements, including entries on over ninety thinkers.

Preface. Chronology. Part I. 1. The Early Decades. 2. Phenomenology on the Way to Existentialism. 3. Existentialism and its Other. 4. Structuralism and the Challenge to Philosophy. 5. After Structuralism. 6. Conclusion. Part II. Key Biographies in Brief. Appendix 1: Understanding French Academic Culture. Appendix 2: Bibliography of French Philosophy in English Translation. Works Cited and Consulted. Index.

To understand the evolution of recent French thought, both the philosophical debates and the figures behind them must be examined. This unique book addresses positions such as vitalism, neo-Kantianism, phenomenology, existentialism, Marxism, structuralism, and feminism, and provides concise biographies of the influential philosophers who shaped these movements, including entries on over 80 thinkers. The discussion and cross-referencing of ideas and figures, together with an appendix on the distinctive nature of French academic culture, provide readers with an unparalleled resource for coming to grips with recent French philosophy in a single engaging and concise text.

"This is a multifaceted work ... a stimulating introduction to a rich philosophical era, and it is all the more rewarding due to Schrift's specific focus on the structure of philosophical institutions in France." (Philosophy In Review) "Schrift has written a book that is a gift to both scholars and students. This volume should be a required textbook in every course in Continental philosophy. Highly recommended." (Choice) "This is an astonishing book, a must-read for anyone interested not only in twentieth-century French philosophy, but also in the academic situation in France that produced, among others, Derrida, Deleuze, and Foucault."—Leonard Lawlor, University of Memphis "A most welcome addition to the literature on twentieth-century French philosophy, and will prove to be an invaluable guide to students and scholars alike. Written in a lucid and instructive manner, it features material and information little known to English-speaking readers but vital for full appreciation of French thought. The book is essential reading for anyone involved in the subject."—Keith Ansell Pearson, University of Warwick "A clear and thorough account … also introduce[s] the reader to some lesser-known influences .... A historical reference work, but is also much more." (Continental Philosophy Review)

"This is an astonishing book, a must-read for anyone interested not only in twentieth-century French philosophy, but also in the academic situation in France that produced, among others, Derrida, Deleuze, and Foucault." –Leonard Lawlor, University of Memphis "A most welcome addition to the literature on twentieth-century French philosophy, and will prove to be an invaluable guide to students and scholars alike. Written in a lucid and instructive manner, it features material and information little known to English-speaking readers but vital for full appreciation of French thought. The book is essential reading for anyone involved in the subject." –Keith Ansell Pearson, University of Warwick