What is this thing called Philosophy? is the definitive textbook for all who want a thorough introduction to the field. It introduces philosophy using a question-led approach that reflects the discursive nature of the discipline. Edited by Duncan Pritchard, each section is written by a high-profile contributor focusing on a key area of philosophy, and contains three or four question-based chapters offering an accessible point of engagement.
The core areas of philosophy covered are:
- Ethics
- Political Philosophy
- Aesthetics
- Epistemology
- Philosophy of Mind
- Metaphysics
- Philosophy of Science
- Philosophy of Religion
- The Meaning of Life.
The accompanying Routledge companion website features valuable online resources for both instructors and students including links to audio and video material, multiple-choice questions, interactive flashcards, essay questions and annotated further reading. This is the essential textbook for students approaching the study of philosophy for the first time.
'What Is This Thing Called Philosophy? is an impressive book. The range of topics is excellent and covers much that is both humanly engaging and philosophically important. There is great clarity and intellectual commitment in the writing - a fine resource for anyone new to philosophy.'
Stephen Hetherington, University of New South Wales, Australia
"What is this thing called Philosophy? is an excellent, wide ranging and stimulating textbook, written by first rate academics. Both deep and lively, it introduces the main contemporary issues in the major areas of philosophy and? will no doubt be of great service to anyone approaching the field for the first time."
Claudine Tiercelin, Collège de France and Institut Jean Nicod, France
"This is a wonderful book! A collection of short, engaging and surprisingly accessible chapters, written by leading authors in the field. This is a welcome development - a non-technical introduction to philosophy's central questions."
John Greco, Saint Louis University, USA
