Introduction

This chapter explains the ground-breaking approach taken to the history of French philosophy by the Handbook of Modern French Philosophy. With the view that French philosophy from the beginning of the nineteenth century cannot be adequately understood without reference to its roots in the national education system, the chapter also offers a historical account of the development of French philosophical institutions. It focuses on the role of philosophy in the education system, the different research and teaching institutions, and the organs – such as journals – through which it is disseminated.