Overview
Main description
Find out the thinking behind modern thinking
Understand Philosophy is the essential introduction to the history of Western thought. Covering all the key thinkers, both ancient and modern, and all the major branches of philosophy, it will give you new insights about the world we live in. Packed full of examples and clear explanations and with key terms defined and explained, it is ideal whether you are student looking for a quick refresher or just want to explore this fascinating topic out of personal interest.
Also included:
- Up-to-date examples and practical applications so you can better understand difficult concepts, works, characters and theories
- Context and significance of all major philosophical texts
- Discussion of contemporary issues and arguments
- One and five-minute introductions to key principles to get you started
- Lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author’s many years of experience
- Tests in the book and online to keep track of your progress
- Extra online articles at www.teachyourself.com to give you a richer understanding of the basics of philosophy
Topics include: The theory of knowledge, The philosophy of science, Language and Logic, The philosophy of mind, The philosophy of religion, Ethics, Political philosophy, Continental philosophy, Some other branches of philosophy, The scope of philosophy today
Table of contents
AcknowledgementsThe scope of this bookIntroductionCh 1 The theory of knowledgeCh 2 The philosophy of scienceCh 3 Language and LogicCh 4 The philosophy of mindCh 5 The philosophy of religionCh 6 EthicsCh 7 Political philosophyCh 8 Continental philosophyCh 9 Some other branches of philosophyCh 10 The scope of philosophy todayTaking it FurtherGlossaryIndex
Author comments
Mel Thompson is a freelance writer, specialising in philosophy, religion and ethics. He has written many books including six in the Teach Yourself series. He has also been an assistant examiner on the Oxford, Cambridge and RSA examination boards.
