Description
Book SynopsisThe Story of Philosophy sees philosophy for what it is: a passionate, exhilarating quest for human understanding that cannot be reduced to dry categories or simple definitions. It's a story with plot twists, a murder, accidental discoveries, disastrous love affairs, geniuses, idiots, monks, and vagabonds. At the heart of it all are the ideas and obsessions that have captured great thinkers from the very beginning. Packed with intriguing anecdotes and fascinating detail, James Garvey and Jeremy Stangroom bring us face to face with the most important philosophers in western history. Rigorous, refreshingly free of academic jargon, and highly accessible, this is the ideal introduction for anyone who wants to gain a new perspective on philosophy's biggest thoughts.
Trade Review'An invaluable introduction to the topic ... offers clarity, insight and the occasional dash of wit' Scotland on Sunday. * Scotland on Sunday *
Table of ContentsIntroduction. The Beginning of Philosophy: The Greek Miracle; The First Philosophers; The Love of Wisdom; Purpose. Hellenes & Romans: Cynics, Stoics and Sceptics; Atomists and Epicureans. Religion: Faith and Reason; The Scholastics. Knowledge: Renaissance and Enlightenment; Reason; Experience. Modern Matters: Politics; Idealism; Right and Wrong. Current Concerns: Nihilism and Existentialism; Continental Philosophy; Analysis; Mind and Matter. Postscript: The Future. Further Reading. Index. Acknowledgements.
