An Introduction to Philosophy: Foundational Concepts from Antiquity to Today

An Introduction to Philosophy: Foundational Concepts from Antiquity to Today takes students on an historical tour of key concepts in philosophy. As readers learn about key philosophical ideas, they also learn about the philosophers who created them and the times in which they lived.

The text progresses chronologically, beginning with philosophy in the ancient world and ending with philosophy as it is practiced today. Part I introduces ideas from ancient Greek and classical Chinese philosophy as well as from religious philosophers in the Middle Ages. Part II explores how major revolutions in science and philosophy influenced how philosophers thought about human nature and politics, freedom in society, and the rights of women. In the last part, students learn about how thinkers like Marx, Nietzsche, and other modern philosophers challenge classical ideas and provide resources for thinking about our own time.

The second edition features greater emphasis on recent philosophers and their ideas on modern issues such as civil rights and human responsibility. New readings include David Hume on passion and willpower, Andrew Feenberg on technology and modernity, and an updated version of Cornel West's piece on the moral obligations of those who live in democratic societies.

An Introduction to Philosophy is ideal for foundational courses in philosophy, humanities and liberal arts, and intellectual history.