The first comprehensive collection of the work of Richard Rorty (1931-2007), The Rorty Reader brings together the influential American philosopher's essential essays from over four decades of writings. * Offers a comprehensive introduction to Richard Rorty's life and body of work * Brings key essays published across many volumes and journals into one collection, including selections from his final volume of philosophical papers, Philosophy as Cultural Politics (2007)) * Contains the previously unpublished (in English) essay, "Redemption from Egotism" * Includes in-depth interviews, and several revealing autobiographical pieces * Represents the fullest portrait available today on Rorty's relationship with American pragmatism and the trajectory of his thought