author
Herbert Ernest Cushman
1865–1944
A Harvard-trained philosopher and longtime Tufts professor, he wrote clear, accessible books that helped introduce generations of readers to the history of philosophy. His best-known work, A Beginner's History of Philosophy, reflects a gift for making big ideas feel approachable.
2 Audiobooks
A Beginner's History of Philosophy, Vol. 1: Ancient and Mediæval Philosophy
by Herbert Ernest Cushman
A Beginner's History of Philosophy, Vol. 2: Modern Philosophy
by Herbert Ernest Cushman
About the author
Born in Auburn, Maine, in 1865, he studied at Harvard University, earning A.B., A.M., and Ph.D. degrees, and also held degrees from Bates College. He went on to teach philosophy at Tufts College, where he built his reputation as a thoughtful teacher and writer.
He is best remembered for A Beginner's History of Philosophy, a work designed to guide general readers and students through major philosophical traditions in a straightforward way. He also translated Wilhelm Windelband's History of Ancient Philosophy into English and published lectures on religion and philosophy, including What Is Christianity?
He died in 1944. Although not a household name today, his writing still stands out for its patient, explanatory style and for its effort to make philosophy less intimidating to newcomers.