Russell's Marginalia in His Copy of James's <i>Principles of Psychology</i>

Abstract

R ussell's relationship to William James is most often discussed in reference either to Russell's critique of pragmatism or his rejec,: tion and subsequent acceptance ofneutral monism. However, he had an earlier influential encounter with James's work when he read The Principles ofPsychology in September 1894. Russell's reaction very favourable but is often unacknowledged. Though he never withdrew his criticisms of James's pragmatism, nor his objections to James's manner ~f doing philosophy, he did exempt The Principles ofPsychology from them. In an article written for The Nation on James's death, Russell·said that James was at his best where he had concrete facts to deal with, and he went on to single out the Psychology for special praise. It was, he said, far the most delightful and readable book on the subject.l Russell's interest in the Psychology is demonstrated by the great number of marginalia in his copy.2 There are 450, all in pencil, in a count