Philosophy: The Quest for Truth

Praised for its accessibility and comprehensiveness, Philosophy: The Quest for Truth, 4/e features an excellent selection of classical and contemporary readings on nineteen key problems in philosophy. The essays are organized around a pro/con dialogue format so that students can easily compare and contrast the philosophers' positions. Topics covered include the nature of philosophy, the existence of God, immortality, knowledge, the mind-body question, personal identity, free will and determinism, ethics, political philosophy, and the meaning of life. The text features substantial introductions to each of the nineteen philosophical problems. In addition, each of the seventy-three readings is accompanied by an individual introduction with a biographical sketch of the philosopher, study questions, and reflective questions that challenge students to analyze and critique the material. Short bibliographies following each major section, an appendix on how to read and write philosophy papers, and a detailed glossary further enhance the book's pedagogical value. Invaluable for introductory courses in philosophy, this highly acclaimed text inspires and guides students quest for wisdom. The fourth edition adds readings by B.C. Johnson, W.K. Clifford and William James, Margarita Garcia Levin, Paul Edward, John Stuart Mill, Wallace Matson, Albert Mosley, and Louis Pojman.