Martin Hollis

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Martin Hollis was a distinguished philosopher whose work bridged epistemology, the philosophy of social science, and moral philosophy. His most cited work, *Invitation to Philosophy* (1985), remains a classic introductory text that masterfully weaves together foundational questions about knowledge, reality, and ethics. In this book, Hollis guides readers through paradoxes of reasoning, the nature of scientific evidence, and the elusive self, drawing on allegories like Plato’s Cave and the Ring of Gyges to illuminate enduring philosophical puzzles. Beyond this, Hollis made significant contributions to the philosophy of social action, particularly in debates about rationality and the interpretation of human behavior. His work on the "prisoner's dilemma" and collective action challenged simplistic models of rational choice, emphasizing the role of trust, norms, and shared understanding. With over 19 citations for his *Invitation* alone, Hollis’s influence extends across philosophy and the social sciences. His clear, engaging prose and ability to make complex ideas accessible have inspired generations of students and researchers, cementing his legacy as a thinker who insisted that philosophy is not merely an academic exercise but a vital inquiry into how we live and reason together.