Philosophy: Key Themes - Softcover

Baggini, Julian

3.84

161 ratings by Goodreads

Softcover

ISBN 10: 033396487X ISBN 13: 9780333964873

Publisher: Palgrave Macmillan, 2002

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Philosophy: Key Themes is a lively and accessible introductory guide to understanding and analysing philosophical arguments. Designed for complete beginners, it provides brief overviews of five major themes in Western philosophy: Theory of Knowledge, Moral Philosophy, Philosophy of Religion, Philosophy of Mind and Political Philosophy. The main thematic points are clearly and imaginatively discussed, along with a range of criticism which will help you to think about and question the validity of the claims being made. A general introduction provides essential advice on how to read and make sense of philosophical arguments.

Each chapter contains:
- an explanation of the most important areas in each theme
- a selection of critical stances to highlight the potential weaknesses in the positions examined
- a summary and glossary of key terms to help you understand the main concepts
- suggestions for further reading

Invaluable at the start of a course of study, as a revision aid, or as a lucid jargon-free guide for anyone who wants an insight into philosophy, Philosophy: Key Themes can be used either independently of, or together with, its companion volume Philosophy: Key Texts.

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Review:

'A concise and well-structured overview of 5 of the themes taught at AS and A2 level: Theory of Knowledge, Philosophy of Religion, Moral Philosophy, Philosophy of Mind and Political Philosophy.' - Gareth Southwell, Philosophy Online

'...these are very useful books, both of which I would recommend as valuable contributions to introductory literature in the field of philosophy.' - Elizabeth Burns, Think

Synopsis:

"Philosophy: Key Themes" is a beginner's guide to understanding and critiquing philosophical arguments. Each chapter introduces one of the five major themes covered on philosophy courses: theory of knowledge, moral philosophy, philosophy of religion, philosophy of mind and political philosophy. Baggini's approach combines explanation with summary while encouraging the reader to question the arguments and positions presented. This text can be used either independently of, or together with, its companion volume "Philosophy: Key Texts".

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