Richard Kennington (1921-1999), a professor for many years at Pennsylvania State University and the Catholic University of America, was renowned for his insight in reading and teaching early modern philosophy. Although he published articles and spoke widely, never before have his writings been collected in a book. On Modern Origins deftly shows how modern thinkers assessed the errors of the classical tradition and established in its place a philosophy that fuses a new meaning of nature and of theory with humanitarian goals. This volume is an essential source for scholars seeking to understand the contemporary significance of the dawning of the modern era.

"Useful in several respects. First, it contains illuminating interpretations of certain key passages in the writings of the philosophers under consideration…The book is exemplary, moreover, in showing us how to read these philosophers…Finally, this collection of essays is useful for the questions it provokes." - Review of Metaphysics

"Indespensible." - Reconsiderations, Winter 2008