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# Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings
Embark on a journey through the ages, exploring the profound questions that have shaped human thought. This comprehensive guide offers an introduction to philosophy, seamlessly blending classical and contemporary readings to provide a vibrant and engaging exploration of philosophical inquiry. Whether you're a seasoned intellectual or a curious beginner, this post will equip you with a solid understanding of philosophical concepts and their enduring relevance. We'll navigate key figures, seminal works, and enduring debates, offering a roadmap to navigate the fascinating world of philosophical thought.
The Enduring Power of Classical Philosophy
Classical philosophy, spanning from ancient Greece to the late medieval period, laid the foundation for much of Western thought. Understanding this era is crucial for grasping the evolution of philosophical ideas.
Ancient Greece: The Birthplace of Western Philosophy
Ancient Greece birthed many of the foundational branches of philosophy. Thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle established enduring schools of thought.
Socrates (470-399 BCE): Known for his method of questioning (the Socratic method), Socrates focused on ethics and the pursuit of knowledge. His emphasis on self-examination and critical thinking remains highly influential. Reading Plato's dialogues offers invaluable insight into Socrates' life and philosophy.
Plato (428-348 BCE): Plato, a student of Socrates, developed the Theory of Forms, a concept suggesting a realm of perfect ideals underlying the physical world. His Republic explores justice, governance, and the ideal state.
Aristotle (384-322 BCE): Aristotle, Plato's student, emphasized empirical observation and logic. His contributions spanned metaphysics, ethics, politics, and logic, creating a comprehensive philosophical system. His Nicomachean Ethics remains a cornerstone of ethical theory.
Hellenistic Philosophy and Beyond
Following the classical period, Hellenistic philosophy saw the rise of schools like Stoicism and Epicureanism. These schools offered practical guidance for living a virtuous life amidst life's uncertainties. Later, the medieval period saw the integration of philosophical thought with religious doctrines, particularly within the scholastic tradition.
Navigating Contemporary Philosophical Thought
Contemporary philosophy, encompassing the 20th and 21st centuries, builds upon and challenges the legacies of classical thinkers. It grapples with the complexities of modernity and addresses new challenges.
Existentialism: Confronting Existence
Existentialist thinkers, including Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, emphasized individual freedom, responsibility, and the absurdity of existence. They questioned traditional metaphysical frameworks and explored the meaning of life in a seemingly meaningless universe.
Postmodernism: Deconstructing Truth
Postmodern philosophy, represented by thinkers like Michel Foucault and Jacques Derrida, challenges traditional notions of truth, objectivity, and power structures. Postmodernists often deconstruct established narratives and explore the influence of language and discourse.
Ethics in the Modern World
Contemporary ethics grapples with new challenges, such as bioethics, environmental ethics, and technological ethics. These areas require careful consideration of moral principles in the context of rapid technological advancements and global interconnectedness.
Integrating Classical and Contemporary Perspectives
Studying both classical and contemporary philosophy provides a richer understanding. Classical texts offer a foundational understanding of philosophical concepts, while contemporary perspectives illuminate how these concepts continue to shape our world. Connecting these periods allows us to appreciate the evolution of philosophical thought and its ongoing relevance.
Conclusion
An introduction to philosophy, encompassing both classical and contemporary readings, is a journey of self-discovery and intellectual growth. By engaging with these diverse perspectives, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves, our world, and the enduring questions that shape human existence. This exploration provides a foundation for critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and a richer appreciation of the human experience. Further research into specific philosophical schools and thinkers will enrich your understanding and spark countless thought-provoking discussions.
FAQs
1. What are the best resources for studying classical philosophy? Start with translated works of Plato (Republic, Apology), Aristotle (Nicomachean Ethics, Politics), and Epictetus (Enchiridion). Numerous academic commentaries and introductory texts can also guide your study.
2. How does contemporary philosophy relate to classical philosophy? Contemporary philosophy often engages in dialogue with classical ideas, either building upon them, revising them, or critiquing them. It demonstrates the enduring relevance of classical concerns in modern contexts.
3. Is it necessary to read original texts to understand philosophy? While reading original texts provides the richest understanding, accessible introductory texts and secondary sources can provide a solid foundation before tackling more challenging primary sources.
4. What is the significance of studying philosophy in the 21st century? Philosophy equips us with critical thinking skills, ethical frameworks, and a deeper understanding of human nature, all essential for navigating the complexities of the modern world.
5. What are some contemporary philosophical issues relevant today? Contemporary philosophical issues include debates about artificial intelligence, climate change ethics, global justice, and the nature of consciousness. These topics highlight the continued importance of philosophical inquiry in addressing contemporary challenges.
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Introduction to Philosophy John Perry, Michael Bratman, 1986 Introduction to Philosophy, 3/e is the most comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and contemporary philosophy available. Ideal for introductory philosophy courses, the third edition of this classic text now includes a general introduction and features eighteen selections new to this volume and an expanded glossary of philosophical terms. A serious and challenging work, it includes sections on the meaning of life, God and evil, epistemology, philosophy of science, the mind/body problem, freedom of will, consciousness, ethics, and philosophical puzzles. This exceptionally successful anthology presents a large number of substantial--and in some cases complete--selections from major works, offering a unique balance between classical and contemporary readings.This third edition adds selections by Plato, Nelson Pike, J.L. Mackie, Elizabeth Anderson, David Lewis, Hilary Putnam, Frank Jackson, John Perry, Peter Strawson, Rosalind Hursthouse, G.A. Cohen, Samuel Scheffler, Debra Satz, and Kwame Anthony Appiah as well as Kavka's Toxin Puzzle and Quinn's Puzzle of the Self-Torturer. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Introduction to Philosophy John Perry, Michael Bratman, John Martin Fischer, 2016 Easy to use for both students and instructors alike, this text is a comprehensive, topically-organized collection of classical and contemporary philosophy. Ideal for introductory philosophy courses, the text includes sections on God and Evil, Knowledge and Reality, the Philosophy of Science,the Mind/Body problem, Freedom of Will, Consciousness, Ethics, Political Philosophy, Existential Issues, and Puzzles and Paradoxes. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Introduction to Philosophy John Perry, Michael Bratman, John Martin Fischer, 2010 Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, Fifth Edition, is the most comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and contemporary philosophy available. Building on the exceptionally successful tradition of previous editions, the fifth edition presents seventy substantial selections from the best and most influential works in philosophy. Revised and updated to make it more pedagogical, this edition incorporates boldfaced key terms; a guide to writing philosophy papers; and a Logical Toolkit, which lists and explains common terminology used in philosophical reasoning. This edition also features five new readings and a separate section on existential issues. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Introduction to Philosophy John Perry, Michael Bratman, 1986 Introduction to Philosophy, 3/e is the most comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and contemporary philosophy available. Ideal for introductory philosophy courses, the third edition of this classic text now includes a general introduction and features eighteen selections new to this volume and an expanded glossary of philosophical terms. A serious and challenging work, it includes sections on the meaning of life, God and evil, epistemology, philosophy of science, the mind/body problem, freedom of will, consciousness, ethics, and philosophical puzzles. This exceptionally successful anthology presents a large number of substantial--and in some cases complete--selections from major works, offering a unique balance between classical and contemporary readings.This third edition adds selections by Plato, Nelson Pike, J.L. Mackie, Elizabeth Anderson, David Lewis, Hilary Putnam, Frank Jackson, John Perry, Peter Strawson, Rosalind Hursthouse, G.A. Cohen, Samuel Scheffler, Debra Satz, and Kwame Anthony Appiah as well as Kavka's Toxin Puzzle and Quinn's Puzzle of the Self-Torturer. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Introduction to Philosophy JOHN. PERRY, Professor of Philosophy John Perry, Michael Bratman, John Martin Fischer, 2018-06-29 Introduce your students to philosophy with the most widely used, trusted, and comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and contemporary readings available. Easy to use for both students and instructors, Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings incorporates boldfaced key terms (listed after each reading and defined in the glossary), a Logical Toolkit, a guide to writing philosophy papers, and study questions after each reading selection. The eighth edition features nine new selections that broaden the book's scope to include work by non-Western philosophers and contemporary women philosophers. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Introduction to Philosophy John Perry, Michael Bratman, John Martin Fischer, 2021-06-16 Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings is the most comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and contemporary philosophy available. Ideal for introductory philosophy courses, the text offers a broad range of readings and depth. The text includes sections on God and Evil, Knowledge and Reality, the Philosophy of Science, the Mind/Body problem, Freedom of Will, Consciousness, Ethics, Political Philosophy, Existential Issues, and philosophical Puzzles and Paradoxes. (The unique section on Puzzles and Paradoxes is often praised by both instructors and students.) Easy to use for both students and instructors alike, the book incorporates boldfaced key terms (listed after each reading and defined in the glossary); a guide to writing philosophy papers; and a Logical Toolkit; and study questions after each reading selection. These features have allowed more students to learn philosophy by using what is seen as the highest quality collection of philosophical readings available. The ninth edition will be revised based on reviewer suggestions, and will include more diversity and readings by female philosophers. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Introduction to Philosophy Louis P. Pojman, 2000 This comprehensive, topically - organized anthology of classical and contemporary readings covers five main areas of philosophy and several additional sub-areas. Pojman includes a useful selection of classical material including four separate readings from Plato and two from Aristotle, balanced by well-chosen contemporary articles. All readings are accessible to students with inquiring minds and, unlike other anthologies of this depth, Pojman provides extensive, readable introductions to the different sections. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Philosophy of Mind David J. Chalmers, 2021-01-04 Philosophy of Mind: Classical and Contemporary Readings is a grand tour of writings on the perplexing questions about the nature of the mind. The most comprehensive and best-selling collection of its kind, the book includes selections that range from the classical contributions of Descartes to the leading edge of contemporary debates. Extensive sections cover foundational issues, the nature of consciousness, and the nature of mental content. Three of the selections are published for the first time, while many other articles have been revised especially for this volume. Each section opens with an introduction by the editor. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Journey into Philosophy Stan Baronett, 2016-10-14 The overriding rationale behind this book is a desire to enrich the lives of college students by introducing them to the practice of philosophical thought in an accessible and engaging manner. The text has over one hundred classical and contemporary readings that facilitate studying each philosophical issue from a variety of perspectives, giving instructors the opportunity to choose a set of readings that matches the individual needs of each class. It includes many selections by philosophers whose works are often ignored or underrepresented in other introductory texts. The initial reading, The Role of Philosophy, is a relevant, clear, and absorbing introduction to the discipline of philosophy. It uses everyday life situations to give students a solid foothold before they journey into specific philosophical topics. In addition, every section of the book has its own special introduction that connects each topic to students’ personal lives. The surrounding narrative is designed to be conversational and comprehensible. Special features include a section on the role of logic, and writing a philosophy paper, two useful tools for approaching and analyzing philosophical writing for students who are new to philosophy. The book is accompanied by a companion website (www.routledge.com/cw/Baronett), with many helpful features, including (for students) review questions for all readings in the book, videos, and 66 related entries taken from the student-friendly Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy and (for instructors) 2,500 questions and answers. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: A Modern Introduction to Philosophy Paul Edwards, Arthur Pap, 1957 |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Classical Philosophy Christopher Shields, Tutor and Fellow of Lady Margaret Hall and Professor of Classical Philosophy Christopher Shields, 2003-09-02 Classical Philosophy is a comprehensive examination of early philosophy from the presocratics through to Aristotle. The aim of the book is to provide an explanation and analysis of the ideas that flourished at this time and considers their relevance both to the historical development of philosophy and to contemporary philosophy today. From these ideas we can see the roots of arguments in metaphysics, epistemology, ethics and political philosophy. The book is arranged in four parts by thinker and covers: The Presocratics Socrates Plato Aristotle Christopher Shields' style is inviting, refreshing and ideal for anyone coming to the subject for the first time. He provides a balanced account of the central topics and ideas that emerged from the period and includes helpful further reading and chapter overviews. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Introduction to Philosophy John Perry, Michael Bratman, John Martin Fischer, Oxford University Press, 2009-04-30 Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, International Edition, is the most comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and contemporary philosophy available. The text includes sections on God and evil, knowledge and reality, the philosophy of science, the mind/body problem, freedom of will, consciousness, ethics, political philosophy, existential issues, and philosophical puzzles and paradoxes. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Philosophy of Law Larry May, Jeff Brown, 2009-05-18 Philosophy of Law provides a rich overview of the diverse theoretical justifications for our legal rules, systems, and practices. Utilizes the work of both classical and contemporary philosophers to illuminate the relationship between law and morality Introduces students to the philosophical underpinnings of International Law and its increasing importance as we face globalization Features concrete examples in the form of cases significant to the evolution of law Contrasts Anglo-American law with foreign institutions and practices such as those in China, Japan, India, Ireland and Canada Incorporates diverse perspectives on the philosophy of law ranging from canonical material to feminist theory, critical theory, postmodernism, and critical race theory |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: The Theory of Knowledge Louis P. Pojman, 1993 This comprehensive anthology offers a solid but accessible set of classical and contemporary readings (58 in all) representing all the major problems and viewpoints (from Plato to the internalist/externalist debate, from skepticism to the ethics of belief). Clear introductions to each section, short abstracts outlining each reading, as well as bibliographical material aid in student understanding. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Classic and Contemporary Readings in the Philosophy of Education Steven M. Cahn, 2012-04-19 Now even more affordably priced in its second edition, Classic and Contemporary Readings in the Philosophy of Education is ideal for undergraduate and graduate philosophy of education courses. Editor Steven M. Cahn, a highly respected contributor to the field, brings together writings by leading figures in the history of philosophy and notable contemporary thinkers. The first section of the book provides material from nine classic writers, while the second section presents twenty-one recent selections that reflect diverse approaches, including pragmatism, analytic philosophy, feminism, and multiculturalism. The second edition features expanded selections by Locke, Rousseau, Kant, and Dewey, along with eight new readings. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Introduction to Philosophy Louis P. Pojman, 1991 Introduction of Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings is a topically organized collection that covers five major areas of philosophy - theory of knowledge, philosophy of religion, philosophy of mind, freedom and determinism, and moral philosophy. Editor Louis P. Pojman enhances the text's topical organization by arranging the selections into a pro/con format to help students better understand opposing arguments. He also includes accessible introductions to each part, subsection, and individual reading, a unique feature for an anthology of this depth. While the book focuses on a compelling sampling of classical material - including selections from Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Locke, Berkeley, Hume, and Kant - it also incorporates some of philosophy's best twentieth-century and contemporary work, featuring articles by Bertrand Russell, Richard Taylor, John Searle, Thomas Nagel, and others.--BOOK JACKET. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Metaphysics Michael Loux, 2006-09-27 'Metaphysics' is aimed at students of metaphysics who have already completed an introductory philosophy course. This third edition provides a fresh look at the key topics in metaphysics and includes new chapters on time and causation. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Reason at Work Steven M. Cahn, 1996 REASON AT WORK is designed for Introduction to Philosophy courses where the instructor prefers to use a collection of readings to introduce the broad divisions of the discipline. This edition includes sixty-two readings organized into the six major branches of philosophical inquiry: Ethics, Social and Political Philosophy, Epistemology, Metaphysics, Philosophy of Religion, and Philosophy of Mind. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: French Philosophy of Technology Sacha Loeve, Xavier Guchet, Bernadette Bensaude Vincent, 2018-05-28 Offering an overall insight into the French tradition of philosophy of technology, this volume is meant to make French-speaking contributions more accessible to the international philosophical community. The first section, “Negotiating a Cultural Heritage,” presents a number of leading 20th century philosophical figures (from Bergson and Canguilhem to Simondon, Dagognet or Ellul) and intellectual movements (from Personalism to French Cybernetics and political ecology) that help shape philosophy of technology in the Francophone area, and feed into contemporary debates (ecology of technology, politics of technology, game studies). The second section, “Coining and Reconfiguring Technoscience,” traces the genealogy of this controversial concept and discusses its meanings and relevance. A third section, “Revisiting Anthropological Categories,” focuses on the relationships of technology with the natural and the human worlds from various perspectives that include anthropotechnology, Anthropocene, technological and vital norms and temporalities. The final section, “Innovating in Ethics, Design and Aesthetics,” brings together contributions that draw on various French traditions to afford fresh insights on ethics of technology, philosophy of design, techno-aesthetics and digital studies. The contributions in this volume are vivid and rich in original approaches that can spur exchanges and debates with other philosophical traditions. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Philosophical Logic John MacFarlane, 2020-11-29 Introductory logic is generally taught as a straightforward technical discipline. In this book, John MacFarlane helps the reader think about the limitations of, presuppositions of, and alternatives to classical first-order predicate logic, making this an ideal introduction to philosophical logic for any student who already has completed an introductory logic course. The book explores the following questions. Are there quantificational idioms that cannot be expressed with the familiar universal and existential quantifiers? How can logic be extended to capture modal notions like necessity and obligation? Does the material conditional adequately capture the meaning of 'if'—and if not, what are the alternatives? Should logical consequence be understood in terms of models or in terms of proofs? Can one intelligibly question the validity of basic logical principles like Modus Ponens or Double Negation Elimination? Is the fact that classical logic validates the inference from a contradiction to anything a flaw, and if so, how can logic be modified to repair it? How, exactly, is logic related to reasoning? Must classical logic be revised in order to be applied to vague language, and if so how? Each chapter is organized around suggested readings and includes exercises designed to deepen the reader's understanding. Key Features: An integrated treatment of the technical and philosophical issues comprising philosophical logic Designed to serve students taking only one course in logic beyond the introductory level Provides tools and concepts necessary to understand work in many areas of analytic philosophy Includes exercises, suggested readings, and suggestions for further exploration in each chapter |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Philosophy of Probability Antony Eagle, 2011 Alan Hajek, The Australian National University, Australia. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: An Introduction to Philosophy Daniel J. Sullivan, 2015-09-23 This textbook is organized as possible: Introduction Chapter 1. What Is Philosophy? Part I. The Historical Rise of Philosophy Chapter 2. The First Beginnings of Philosophy Chapter 3. The Problem of Change and Permanence Chapter 4. The Age of the Sophists Chapter 5. Socrates Chapter 6. Plato Chapter 7. Aristotle Part II. The Meaning of Man Chapter 8. The Nature of Man Chapter 9. The Nature of Knowing Chapter 10. The Kinds of Knowing Chapter 11. The Truth Of Knowing Chapter 12. The Nature of Desire Chapter 13. Freedom And Liberty Chapter 14. Liberty and Love Chapter 15. The Soul Of Man Chapter 16. Human Personality Part III. The Making of Man Chapter 17. In Search of Happiness Chapter 18. The Road to Happiness Chapter 19. The Life of Virtue Chapter 20. The Virtues of the Individual Person Chapter 21. Justice, The Social Virtue Chapter 22. Social Philosophy Part IV. The Universe Of Man Chapter 23. The World of Bodies Chapter 24. The Realm of Nature Part V. The Universe Of Being Chapter 25. In Quest of Being Chapter 26. Transcendentals of Being Chapter 27. The Divisions of Being Chapter 28. Uncreated Being Conclusion Chapter 29. The Perennial Philosophy Reading List Suggested Topics |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Ancient Philosophy Christopher Shields, 2022-12-30 In Ancient Philosophy (2012), Christopher Shields expanded on the coverage of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle in his earlier book, Classical Philosophy (2003), to include the philosophy of the Hellenistic era. In this new edition (2023), Shields reaches even further to include material on Neoplatonism and on Augustine and Proclus, capturing—from Thales of Miletus to the end of the sixth century CE—all of what might be called ancient philosophy. It traces the important connections between the periods and individuals of more than 1,200 years of philosophy’s history without losing sight of the novelties and dynamics unique to each. The coverage of the Presocratics, Sophists, Plato, and Stoicism has also been expanded so as to highlight Plato’s responses to the Sophistic movement in the development of his Theory of Forms. And, finally, a valuable companion volume, with Shields’s focused translations of the important sources referred to in Ancient Philosophy, Second Edition, will soon be published, obviating the need for a massive anthology of discordant voices. Ancient Philosophy, Second Edition, retains its helpful structure: each philosophical position receives: (1) a brief introduction, (2) a sympathetic review of its principal motivations and primary supporting arguments, and (3) a short assessment, inviting readers to evaluate its plausibility. The result is a book that brings the ancient arguments to life, making the introduction truly contemporary. It continues to serve as both a first stop and a well-visited resource for any student of the subject. Key updates in the second edition Extends the range of coverage well into the sixth century CE by offering a new chapter on Neoplatonism and early Christian philosophy, featuring discussions of Proclus and Augustine. Explains the conflicts between Plato and the Sophists by highlighting their approaches to rhetoric as an instrument of persuasion, offering a helpful explanation of two senses of argument. Includes new coverage of Plato’s argument from the Simplicity of the Soul, Argument from Affinity, and Argument against Rhetoric. Includes coverage of Aristotle’s political naturalism . May be used with a soon-to-be-published companion volume of primary source material, all of it translated by Christopher Shields specifically for the reader of this Second Edition. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Happiness Steven M. Cahn, Christine Vitrano, 2008 Part I. Historical Sources. Part II. Contemporary theories. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Philosophical Inquiry Jonathan Eric Adler, Catherine Z. Elgin, 2007-01-01 Provides a problems-oriented approach. This book contains substantial readings from major classical and contemporary thinkers engaged in philosophical inquiry. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: A Dialogue on Personal Identity and Immortality John Perry, 1978-03-15 Perry's excellent dialogue makes a complicated topic stimulating and accessible without any sacrifice of scholarly accuracy or thoroughness. Professionals will appreciate the work's command of the issues and depth of argument, while students will find that it excites interest and imagination. --David M. Rosenthal, CUNY, Lehman College |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Introduction to Classical Chinese Philosophy Bryan W. Van Norden, 2011-03-04 This book is an introduction in the very best sense of the word. It provides the beginner with an accurate, sophisticated, yet accessible account, and offers new insights and challenging perspectives to those who have more specialized knowledge. Focusing on the period in Chinese philosophy that is surely most easily approachable and perhaps is most important, it ranges over of rich set of competing options. It also, with admirable self-consciousness, presents a number of daring attempts to relate those options to philosophical figures and movements from the West. I recommend it very highly.--Lee H. Yearley, Walter Y. Evans-Wentz Professor, Religious Studies, Stanford University |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Western Philosophy John G. Cottingham, 2007-11-28 Western Philosophy: An Anthology provides the most comprehensive and authoritative survey of the Western philosophical tradition from ancient Greece to the leading philosophers of today. Features substantial and carefully chosen excerpts from all the greats of philosophy, arranged thematically and chronologically Readings are introduced and linked together by a lucid philosophical commentary which guides the reader through the key arguments Embraces all the major subfields of philosophy: theory of knowledge and metaphysics, philosophy of mind, religion and science, moral philosophy (theoretical and applied), political theory, and aesthetics Updated edition now includes additional contemporary readings in each section Augmented by two completely new sections on logic and language, and philosophy and the meaning of life |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Theories of Human Nature Donald Abel, 2015-06-19 This anthology offers substantive selections from fifteen writers, chosen on the basis of their insight into human nature, their historical significance, and their diversity. Helpful editorial features of this book include a general introduction to the philosophy of human nature, an introduction to each reading selection, explanatory notes, annotated bibliographies of primary and secondary sources, and discussion questions. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Political Philosophy Louis P. Pojman, 2002 While many anthologies cover ancient and modern classics,Political Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readingsis the only anthology to cover both modern classics and contemporary works. The issues covered are what seem the burning philosophical issues of our time: the justification of the State; theories of justice; liberty; State neutrality versus moral perfectionism; equality and equal opportunity; the nature and scope of rights; and national sovereignty, patriotism, and World government. Each part begins with an introduction to the problems debated in that part. Each selection is introduced with a biographical sketch of the author and an abstract of the reading, so that students can obtain an orientation to what they are about to read. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Readings in the Philosophy of Social Science Michael Martin, Lee C. McIntyre, 1994 the first comprehensive anthology in the philosophy of social science to appear since the late 1960s |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Chinese Philosophy of Technology Qian Wang, 2020-02-20 This book gathers essays that introduce the ideological advances in the philosophy of engineering and technology in contemporary China. It particularly focuses on China’s distinctive concepts and methods, revealing different views and academic debates to offer readers a comprehensive overview of this important field. The contributors present unique perspectives based on practical problems and traditional philosophy, examining such issues and concepts as axiology and theories of process, the difference between engineering activities and technology activities, and the core of the relationship between “Dao” and “Technique.” Other essays cover the ethics of technology, practical wisdom (phronesis) and practical reasoning, as well as creative concepts and methods concerning the philosophical problems in high technology, architectural technology, and technological innovation. The authors also consider more general issues in the field. This book compiles the relevant research achievements of Chinese scholars in various time periods. Some authors have revised and translated into English papers published in Chinese, while others present their research in English specifically for this study. An annotated bibliography of the major publications in the field completes this collection. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Thinking It Through Kwame Anthony Appiah, 2003-03-06 Thinking it Through is a thorough, vividly written introduction to contemporary philosophy and some of the most crucial questions of human existence, including the nature of mind and knowledge, the status of moral claims, the existence of God, the role of science, and the mysteries of language. Noted philosopher Kwame Anthony Appiah shows us what it means to do philosophy in our time and why it should matter to anyone who wishes to live a more thoughtful life. Opposing the common misconceptions that being a philosopher means espousing a set of philosophical beliefs--or being a follower of a particular thinker--Appiah argues that the result of philosophical exploration is not the end of inquiry in a settled opinion, but a mind resting more comfortably among many possibilities, or else the reframing of the question, and a new inquiry. Ideal for introductory philosophy courses, Thinking It Through is organized around eight central topics--mind, knowledge, language, science, morality, politics, law, and metaphysics. It traces how philosophers in the past have considered each subject (how Hobbes, Wittgenstein, and Frege, for example, approached the problem of language) and then explores some of the major questions that still engage philosophers today. More importantly, Appiah not only explains what philosophers have thought but how they think, giving students examples that they can use in their own attempts to navigate the complex issues confronting any reflective person in the twenty-first century. Filled with concrete examples of how philosophers work, Thinking it Through guides students through the process of philosophical reflection and enlarges their understanding of the central questions of human life. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: The Cartoon Introduction to Philosophy Michael F. Patton, Kevin Cannon, 2015-06-02 Philosophy like you've never seen it before The latest in the celebrated Cartoon Introduction series, The Cartoon Introduction to Philosophy is an authoritative and engaging guide to the fundamental questions about our existence. In this indispensable primer, Kevin Cannon—one of the talented illustrators behind Evolution and The Stuff of Life—and the philosopher Michael F. Patton introduce the wisecracking Greek Heraclitus, who hops in a canoe with us as we navigate the great debates of Western thought. As we make our way down the winding river of philosophy, we meet the pre-Socratics, who first questioned mythology and wondered about the world around them; encounter the disciplines of logic, perception, and epistemology; face the central problem of free will; and witness historic arguments over the existence of God. Along the way, famous thinkers like René Descartes and Immanuel Kant spell out their work in clear, lighthearted conversations that will put readers at ease. Patton's prose, combined with Cannon's rich artistry, puts the fun back into the quest for fundamental truths, imparting the love of wisdom to anyone willing to grab a paddle and join the ride. A rich combination of education and entertainment, The Cartoon Introduction to Philosophy is a must-have book for students and professors alike. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Social Science Gerard Delanty, 1997 It is argued that the conception of social science emerging today is one that involves a synthesis of radical constructivism and critical realism. The crucial challenge facing social science is a question of its public role: growing reflexivity in society has implications for the social production of knowledge and is bringing into question the separation of expert systems from other forms of knowledge. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Introducing Philosophy Robert C. Solomon, 1989 Based on the idea that philosophy is a truly exciting and accessible subject, this engaging text acquaints students with the core problems of philosophy and the many ways in which they have been answered. It acknowledges that philosophy is very much alive today but is also deeply rooted in the past--in the many traditions that converge and diverge from ancient Greece, ancient China, and ancient India. Accordingly, the book combines substantial original sources from significant works in the history of philosophy with detailed commentary and explanation that help to clarify the readings. The selections range from the oldest known fragments to cutting-edge essays in feminism, multiculturalism, and cognitive science. In this seventh edition, the readings have been edited for clarity and conciseness and include new selections from The Economist, Robert Kane, John Corvino, Cheshire Calhoun, Nelson Mandela, Mencius, and Hsun Tsu. Each chapter is followed by a summary, a glossary, and a bibliography with suggestions for further readings. Important philosophical terms are carefully introduced within the text and also summarized at the end of each chapter, and brief biographies of the philosophers are provided at the end of the book. Ideal for courses in introductory philosophy, Introducing Philosophy: A Text with Integrated Readings, 7/e presents students with various alternatives on critical philosophical issues and encourages them to arrive at their own conclusions. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: The Philosophy of Mind Brian Beakley, Peter Ludlow, 1992 Bringing together the best classical and contemporary writings in the philosophy of mind and organized by topic, this anthology allows readers to follow the development of thinking in five broad problem areas--the mind/body problem, mental causation, associationism/connectionism, mental imagery, and innate ideas--over 2500 years of philosophy. The writings range from Plato and Descartes to Fodor and the PDP research group, showing how many of the current concerns in the philosophy of mind and cognitive science are firmly rooted in history. The editors have provided helpful introductions to each of the main sections.Readings from: Plato, Aristotle, St. Thomas Aquinas, René Descartes, Thomas Hobbes, Nicolas Malebranche, Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, John Locke, George Berkeley, David Hume, Immanuel Kant, John Stuart Mill, Thomas Henry Huxley, William James, Oswald Külpe, John Watson, jean Piaget, Gilbert Ryle, U.T. Place, Hilary Putnam, Daniel Dennett, Donald Davidson, Jerry Fodor, Roger Shepard, Jacqueline Metzler, Saul Kripke, Ned Block, Noam Chomsky, Stephen Kosslyn, Zenon Pylyshyn, Patricia Churchland, James McClelland, David Rumelhart, Geoffrey Hinton, Paul Smolensky, Seymour Papert. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Introduction to Philosophy Christina Hendricks, George Matthews, 2020-02-27 We often make judgments about good and bad, right and wrong. Philosophical ethics is the critical examination of these and other concepts central to how we evaluate our own and each others' behavior and choices. This text examines some of the main threads of discussion on these topics that have developed over the last couple of millenia, mostly within the Western cultural tradition.The book is designed to be used alone or alongside a reader of historical and contemporary original sources, and is freely available in web and digital formats at https: //press.rebus.community/intro-to-phil-ethics/. If you are adopting or adapting this book for a course, please let us know on our adoption form for the Introduction to Philosophy open textbook series: https: //docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdwf2E7bRGvWefjhNZ07kgpgnNFxVxxp-iidPE5gfDBQNGBGg/viewform?usp=sf_link. Cover art by Heather Salazar; cover design by Jonathan Lashley. One of nine books in the Introduction to Philosophy open textbook serie |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Philosophy of Mind John Heil, Professor in the Philosophy-Neuroscience-Psychology Program John Heil, 2004-06 This comprehensive and leading textbook has been revised and reworked building on the themes of the first edition. As before it covers all aspects of the nature of mind, and is ideal for anyone coming to philosophy of mind for the first time. |
| introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings: Metaphysics Michael J. Loux, 2001 Metaphysics: Contemporary Readingsis a comprehensive anthology that draws together leading philosophers writing on the major themes in Metaphysics. Chapter sections cover: Universals; Particulars; Modality and Possible Worlds; Causation; Time; and Realism and Anti-Realism. The readings are designed to complement Michael Loux'sMetaphysics: A Contemporary Introduction, 2nd Edition. |
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings incorporates boldfaced key terms (listed after each reading and defined in the glossary), a Logical Toolkit, a guide to …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings. Description: This comprehensive anthology provides a captivating journey through the vast landscape of …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary WEBprovides an excellent selection of eighty-nine classical and contemporary readings on nineteen key problems in philosophy. This …
Classical and Contemporary Readings
In philosophy, as in life, we're mostly inter ested in putting forth valid arguments. At the very least, our conclusions must really follow from our premises. But although validity is a good first step, …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, International Edition, is the most comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and contemporary philosophy …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Contemporary Readings Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, International Edition, is the most comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
An introduction to philosophy, encompassing both classical and contemporary readings, is a journey of self-discovery and intellectual growth. By engaging with these diverse perspectives, …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Classical and Contemporary Readings is the most comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and contemporary philosophy available. Ideal for introductory philosophy courses, the …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Yet, nestled within the musical pages of Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary Readings, a fascinating perform of fictional elegance that impulses with natural thoughts, lies …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
The Rise of Digital Reading Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary Readings. Advantages of eBooks Over Traditional Books. Identifying Introduction To Philosophy …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Philosophy Classical And Contemporary Readings "Introduction of Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings is a topically organized collection that covers five major areas of ...
Introduction to Philosophy
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, 8th Edition. J. Perry, M. Bratman, and J.M. Fischer (Eds.) Oxford: OUP 2019 (hereafter “PBF”) Ø Additional required …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
"Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings" is designed to introduce students and general readers alike to the core concepts and key figures of philosophical inquiry.
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Contemporary Readings Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, International Edition, is the most 3 comprehensive topically organized collection of classical …
Introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary …
Identifying introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings john r perry Exploring Different Genres Considering Fiction vs. Non-Fiction Determining Your Reading Goals 14.
Introduction to Philosophy
Materials: The text for the course is Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, 6th edition, eds. John Perry, Michael Bratman, and John Martin Fischer. It is …
Introduction to Philosophy - bpb-us-w2.wpmucdn.com
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, Fifth Edition John Perry, Michael Bratman and John Martin Fischer, 2009. Course Description: This course is an …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, Third Edition, is a highly acclaimed, topically organized collection that covers five major areas of philosophy ....
Introduction to Philosophy Classical and Contemporary …
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, Third Edition, is a highly acclaimed, topically organized collection that covers five major areas of philosophy ....
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Philosophy Classical And Contemporary Readings Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings incorporates boldfaced key terms (listed after each reading and …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings incorporates boldfaced key terms (listed after each reading and defined in the glossary), a Logical Toolkit, a guide to writing …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings. Description: This comprehensive anthology provides a captivating journey through the vast landscape of philosophical thought, …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary WEBprovides an excellent selection of eighty-nine classical and contemporary readings on nineteen key problems in philosophy. This …
Classical and Contemporary Readings
In philosophy, as in life, we're mostly inter ested in putting forth valid arguments. At the very least, our conclusions must really follow from our premises. But although validity is a good first step, …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, International Edition, is the most comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and contemporary philosophy available. …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Contemporary Readings Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, International Edition, is the most comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
An introduction to philosophy, encompassing both classical and contemporary readings, is a journey of self-discovery and intellectual growth. By engaging with these diverse perspectives, we gain a …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Classical and Contemporary Readings is the most comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and contemporary philosophy available. Ideal for introductory philosophy courses, the …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Yet, nestled within the musical pages of Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary Readings, a fascinating perform of fictional elegance that impulses with natural thoughts, lies an …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
The Rise of Digital Reading Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary Readings. Advantages of eBooks Over Traditional Books. Identifying Introduction To Philosophy Classical …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Philosophy Classical And Contemporary Readings "Introduction of Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings is a topically organized collection that covers five major areas of ...
Introduction to Philosophy
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, 8th Edition. J. Perry, M. Bratman, and J.M. Fischer (Eds.) Oxford: OUP 2019 (hereafter “PBF”) Ø Additional required texts (marked …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
"Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings" is designed to introduce students and general readers alike to the core concepts and key figures of philosophical inquiry.
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Contemporary Readings Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, International Edition, is the most 3 comprehensive topically organized collection of classical and …
Introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary …
Identifying introduction to philosophy classical and contemporary readings john r perry Exploring Different Genres Considering Fiction vs. Non-Fiction Determining Your Reading Goals 14.
Introduction to Philosophy
Materials: The text for the course is Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, 6th edition, eds. John Perry, Michael Bratman, and John Martin Fischer. It is available …
Introduction to Philosophy - bpb-us-w2.wpmucdn.com
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, Fifth Edition John Perry, Michael Bratman and John Martin Fischer, 2009. Course Description: This course is an introduction not …
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, Third Edition, is a highly acclaimed, topically organized collection that covers five major areas of philosophy ....
Introduction to Philosophy Classical and Contemporary …
Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings, Third Edition, is a highly acclaimed, topically organized collection that covers five major areas of philosophy ....
Introduction To Philosophy Classical And Contemporary …
Philosophy Classical And Contemporary Readings Introduction to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary Readings incorporates boldfaced key terms (listed after each reading and defined …
