Pathways in Philosophy

<em>Pathways in Philosophy</em> is a unique introductory text that features both a historical and a topical approach to the central problems in the field--questions regarding existence knowledge and moral and political value. Organized into two parts Metaphysics and Epistemology and Ethics and Political Philosophy the text addresses these problems by providing a guided tour through ten classic philosophical readings. Offering detailed critical commentary Jacquette carefully explains and analyzes seminal works by Plato Aristotle Ockham Descartes Berkeley Kant Mill Nietzsche Moore and Rawls. He applies the pathways metaphor to the various intersecting and overlapping lines of thought represented by this selection of authors drawing surprising connections between their ideas. This approach enables students to appreciate the relationships between what may otherwise appear to be disparate strands of thought in great works of philosophy and in different traditions of philosophical thought. By following the historical and philosophical narrative in each chapter students learn how to interpret and critically evaluate difficult philosophical writings in their historical contexts--how to identify concepts questions definitions arguments and major components of philosophical reasoning in a systematic way. <br> Offering a combination of historical coverage and rigorous critical evaluation <em>Pathways in Philosophy</em> is ideal for courses in introductory philosophy. The text is enhanced by study questions key terms and suggested readings at the end of each chapter as well as a glossary at the end of the book.