Thinking Philosophically: An Introduction to Critical Reflection and Rational Dialogue - Softcover

Creel, Richard E.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0631219358 ISBN 13: 9780631219354

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, 2009

Synopsis

Thinking Philosophically begins by helping the reader acquire a lively sense of what philosophy is, how it began, why it persists, and how it is related to other fields of study, especially science.Readers are given three methods for thinking about and discussing philosophical problems:The Socratic MethodRunning out the PermutationsRational DialogueThe remainder of the book explores topics and positions in the three most basic areas of philosophy: Theory of Knowledge, Theory of Value, and Metaphysics. Numerous positions are explained, defended, and then critiqued. Each critique leads to a new position which is given the same threefold treatment. This dialectical process allows the reader to move beyond solitary reflection to fruitful philosophical dialogue with others.

About this title

Product Description:

Thinking Philosophically This volume aims to help the reader acquire a sense of what philosophy is, how it began, why it persists, and how it is related to other fields of study, especially science. Full description

Review:

"The book is written in a clear, lively, and engaging style. The selection of topics is excellent, and the writing is done in such a way as to directly engage the beginning student in thinking about philosophical issues. Creel does an excellent job of relating basic philosophical issues to the concerns of everyday life. All in all, a superb job." William Alston, Syracuse University

"It is clear the book is born of experience in teaching students. Creel addresses objections they are likely to have and engages them right where they are coming from. The book stays focused on 'big issues' in a way that matches up with students' expectations of what a philosophy class should be about." Trenton Merricks, Virginia Commonwealth University

"Thinking Philosophically will make a lively and distinctive addition to the introductory literature. The book will allow teachers and students alike to benefit from Richard Creel's own experience as an undergraduate teacher. Strongly recommended." Aaron Ridley, University of Southampton

About this edition

• Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
• Publication date: 2009
• ISBN 10: 0631219358
• ISBN 13: 9780631219354
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 360