Description
Book SynopsisThis is a clear, accessible introduction to the method and subject of philosophy. Written to meet the needs of students, at the end of each chapter there are clear note structures to help students use the ideas confidently, with movements in thought represented on intellectual maps that will allow them to see how each fits into the whole. The text is enriched with fascinating insights into the lives and ideas of philosophers, which makes it an absorbing read.
Trade Review'I think this will make a fine textbook. It's a book I would have very much wished to have read when I first studied philosophy. It is consistently engaging and lucid. It never patronises the reader, it challenges the reader in just the right way. It is historically informed, without being a history of philosophy, and it covers a lot of philosophical ground. This is really a remarkable achievement for a lone author.' - Dr. Damian Cox, School of History, Philosophy, Religion and Classics, University of Queensland, Australia
'Bryan Greetham has, in one way, achieved something remarkable in writing this book: it is as close as one could reasonably hope to being a completely comprehensive introductory textbook in philosophy...The book is well organised and well designed for student use...' - E. J. Lowe, Times Higher Education Supplement
Table of ContentsIntroduction The Subject The Method - Hypothesizing The Method - Testing for Validity The Method - Testing for Truth PART 1: OUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE EXTERNAL WORLD Knowledge Truth Scepticism Perception - Rationalism and Empiricism Perception - Idealism and Phenomenalism Explanations - Purposive and Causal Explanations Explanations - Confirming and Falsifying Theories Religion Reason and Faith PART 2: UNDERSTANDING THE INDIVIDUAL The Mind and Mental Events The Problem of Dualism The Essence of Self Creating the Self Determinism and Freedom Freedom in Context Responsibility and Punishment PART 3: UNDERSTANDING OUR RELATIONS WITH OTHERS Metaethics Normative Ethics: Deontology Normative Ethics: Consequentialism and Virtue Ethics Politics: Legitimacy and the State Politics: The Extent of Power Politics: Forms of Government Politics: Political Theories Conclusion Glossary Bibliography Index
