The Road Traveled and Other Essays

The Road Traveled and Other Essays presents the recent work of philosopher and educator Steven M. Cahn. This book offers his latest reflections on the nature of well-being, the rationality of religious belief, and the aims of higher education. Also included are a selection of his challenging philosophical puzzles. The work concludes with a detailed account of his career as a faculty member, foundation executive, and university administrator. ""Professor Cahn's mastery of the art of philosophical writing shines on every page of this superb volume. Its capstone is an autobiographical essay charting his fascinating academic and professional journey."" --Robert B. Talisse, Vanderbilt University ""These essays are clear and concise gems. They are always straightforward, controversial, and convincing."" --Alan H. Goldman, College of William and Mary ""Steven M. Cahn, for fifty years a force in philosophy and higher education, offers these wise reflections on happiness, academic life, belief in God, the politics of hiring in departments, affirmative action, and the path of his own career. A thoroughly enjoyable read by a professor who has been at the center of many important, contemporary controversies and who helped shape some of the key events."" --Gregory Pence, University of Alabama at Birmingham Steven M. Cahn is professor emeritus of philosophy at the City University of New York Graduate Center, where he served for nearly a decade as provost and vice president for academic affairs, then as acting president. He is the author or editor of more than sixty books. Most recently he wrote From Student to Scholar: A Candid Guide to Becoming a Professor; Religion Within Reason; Teaching Philosophy: A Guide; and Inside Academia: Professors, Politics, and Policies.