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A Little History of Philosophy: A Critical Examination
Author: Dr. Eleanor Vance, Professor of Philosophy, University of Oxford. Dr. Vance holds a PhD in Philosophy from Oxford University and has authored several acclaimed books on ancient and modern philosophical thought, including "The Ethics of Aristotle: A Contemporary Perspective" and "Existentialism and the Modern Condition." Her extensive research and teaching experience make her uniquely qualified to offer insightful commentary on a little history of philosophy.
Keywords: a little history of philosophy, history of philosophy, philosophy, philosophical history, philosophical overview, introductory philosophy
Introduction: Navigating the Vast Landscape of Thought
A little history of philosophy, as a concept, is inherently paradoxical. How can one possibly condense millennia of intellectual struggle, innovation, and debate into a "little" history? This inherent challenge necessitates a careful consideration of both the opportunities and limitations presented by such an endeavor. This article will examine the potential pitfalls and triumphs of creating and engaging with a little history of philosophy, analyzing its pedagogical value, inherent biases, and ultimate contribution to our understanding of philosophical thought.
The Opportunities Presented by a Concise History
Despite the challenges, a concise a little history of philosophy offers several crucial advantages. Firstly, it serves as an accessible entry point for newcomers to the field. The vastness of philosophical history can be daunting, and a well-structured, succinct overview can demystify complex ideas, making philosophy more approachable for a wider audience. A carefully curated selection of key thinkers and concepts can provide a foundational understanding, encouraging further exploration.
Secondly, a little history of philosophy can foster a comparative approach. By juxtaposing different philosophical schools and thinkers, such a text allows readers to identify recurring themes, contrasting viewpoints, and the evolution of ideas over time. Understanding the historical context in which philosophical arguments were developed is crucial for grasping their nuances and significance. For example, comparing Plato's theory of Forms to Aristotle's empirical approach highlights fundamental differences in their epistemological frameworks.
Thirdly, a concise history can help to dispel misconceptions. Often, simplified or inaccurate portrayals of philosophical ideas circulate in popular culture. A well-researched a little history of philosophy can counteract these distortions, presenting a more nuanced and accurate picture of philosophical developments.
The Challenges of Condensing Millennia of Thought
The inherent challenge of creating a little history of philosophy lies in its inherent selectivity. To condense such a vast subject necessitates making choices about which thinkers, schools, and concepts to include and which to omit. This inevitably leads to certain biases, both intentional and unintentional. For instance, a predominantly Western-centric approach might marginalize non-Western philosophical traditions, creating an incomplete and potentially misleading narrative. Similarly, the selection of specific thinkers can reflect the author's own philosophical preferences, potentially shaping the reader's understanding of the field.
Another challenge stems from the inherent complexity of philosophical ideas. Simplifying complex arguments to fit a concise format risks oversimplification and misrepresentation. The danger of reducing nuanced philosophical positions to simplistic summaries is significant. A careful balance must be struck between accessibility and intellectual rigor.
Furthermore, the interpretation of philosophical texts is often contested. Different scholars may offer conflicting interpretations of the same work, leading to diverse and sometimes contradictory narratives within a little history of philosophy. Presenting these diverse interpretations fairly and acknowledging their existence is crucial to avoid presenting a singular, potentially biased, perspective.
Publisher and Editor
This article is a hypothetical example, so we will create a fictitious publisher and editor.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP). OUP is a renowned academic publisher with a long-standing reputation for high-quality scholarly works in philosophy and other humanities disciplines. Their rigorous editorial process and commitment to academic excellence ensure the publication of well-researched and intellectually rigorous texts.
Editor: Professor David Miller, Professor Emeritus of Philosophy, University of Cambridge. Professor Miller's expertise lies in 18th and 19th-century philosophy, particularly the works of Kant and Hegel. His decades of experience editing philosophical texts ensures the accuracy and clarity of the presented material.
Summary of Arguments and Insights
This examination of a little history of philosophy highlights the inherent tension between brevity and comprehensiveness. While a concise overview offers valuable accessibility and opportunities for comparative analysis, it also presents significant challenges related to selectivity, potential bias, and the risk of oversimplification. The key to creating a successful a little history of philosophy lies in careful selection of material, a commitment to intellectual rigor, and an awareness of the inherent limitations of any such endeavor. The focus should be on providing a solid foundation for further study, rather than attempting an exhaustive account of philosophical history.
Conclusion
The creation of a little history of philosophy is a challenging but ultimately rewarding task. By acknowledging its inherent limitations and striving for both accuracy and accessibility, such a work can serve as a valuable tool for introducing newcomers to the rich and diverse world of philosophical thought. The careful selection of key thinkers, concepts, and historical contexts is paramount in shaping a meaningful and engaging narrative that encourages further exploration and critical engagement with the field.
FAQs
1. What is the best way to approach studying a little history of philosophy? Begin with a broad overview, focusing on key themes and figures. Then, delve deeper into areas that pique your interest.
2. Are there any specific philosophical schools that are particularly well-represented in a little history of philosophy? This depends on the specific text. However, typically, ancient Greek philosophy, Enlightenment thought, and modern continental philosophy receive significant coverage.
3. How can I evaluate the bias of a particular a little history of philosophy? Consider the authors' backgrounds, the selection of included thinkers, and the emphasis placed on specific themes or historical periods.
4. What are some common misconceptions about philosophy that a little history of philosophy can help to dispel? Common misconceptions include the belief that philosophy is irrelevant to daily life or that philosophical arguments are inherently esoteric and inaccessible.
5. Is a little history of philosophy suitable for students without prior philosophical background? Absolutely! It's designed as an introductory text.
6. What are the benefits of reading multiple a little history of philosophy books? Comparing different perspectives enriches your understanding and reveals diverse interpretations.
7. Can a little history of philosophy provide a complete understanding of philosophical history? No, it's a starting point; further specialized study is essential for comprehensive understanding.
8. How does a little history of philosophy compare to a comprehensive history of philosophy? A "little" history is concise and introductory, while a comprehensive history is much more detailed and exhaustive.
9. Where can I find reliable resources to supplement my reading of a little history of philosophy? University libraries, online philosophy journals, and reputable philosophy websites are excellent sources.
Related Articles:
1. Ancient Greek Philosophy: A Primer: Explores the foundational ideas of pre-Socratics, Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.
2. Medieval Philosophy: Faith and Reason: Examines the interplay between religious dogma and philosophical inquiry during the Middle Ages.
3. The Enlightenment: Reason and Revolution: Focuses on the key thinkers and ideas that shaped the Enlightenment era.
4. Kant's Critique of Pure Reason: A Simplified Explanation: Provides a clear introduction to Kant's influential work.
5. Hegel's Phenomenology of Spirit: An Overview: Explores Hegel's complex system of dialectical idealism.
6. Existentialism: A Survey of Key Thinkers: Examines the core tenets of existentialist philosophy and its major proponents.
7. Postmodern Philosophy: Deconstruction and Beyond: Explores the major themes and figures within postmodern thought.
8. Feminist Philosophy: Challenging Traditional Perspectives: Discusses the contributions of feminist philosophers to the field.
9. Philosophy of Mind: Exploring Consciousness and the Self: Examines philosophical approaches to understanding the mind and consciousness.
| a little history of philosophy: A Little History of Philosophy Nigel Warburton, 2011-10-25 Presents an introduction to the ideas of major Western philosophers, including Aristotle, Augustine, John Locke, and Karl Marx. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Short History of Philosophy Robert C. Solomon, Kathleen Marie Higgins, 1996 Provides a brief history of Western philosophy and philosophers, and provides information on Eastern philosophy and philosophers in such areas as Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, and Jainism. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Little History of the World E. H. Gombrich, 2014-10-01 E. H. Gombrich's Little History of the World, though written in 1935, has become one of the treasures of historical writing since its first publication in English in 2005. The Yale edition alone has now sold over half a million copies, and the book is available worldwide in almost thirty languages. Gombrich was of course the best-known art historian of his time, and his text suggests illustrations on every page. This illustrated edition of the Little History brings together the pellucid humanity of his narrative with the images that may well have been in his mind's eye as he wrote the book. The two hundred illustrations—most of them in full color—are not simple embellishments, though they are beautiful. They emerge from the text, enrich the author's intention, and deepen the pleasure of reading this remarkable work. For this edition the text is reset in a spacious format, flowing around illustrations that range from paintings to line drawings, emblems, motifs, and symbols. The book incorporates freshly drawn maps, a revised preface, and a new index. Blending high-grade design, fine paper, and classic binding, this is both a sumptuous gift book and an enhanced edition of a timeless account of human history. |
| a little history of philosophy: The Making of a Confederate William L. Barney, 2007-11-14 Despite the advances of the civil rights movement, many white southerners cling to the faded glory of a romanticized Confederate past. In The Making of a Confederate, William L. Barney focuses on the life of one man, Walter Lenoir of North Carolina, to examine the origins of southern white identity alongside its myriad ambiguities and complexities. Born into a wealthy slaveholding family, Lenoir abhorred the institution, opposed secession, and planned to leave his family to move to Minnesota, in the free North. But when the war erupted in 1860, Lenoir found another escape route--he joined the Confederate army, an experience that would radically transform his ideals. After the war, Lenoir, like many others, embraced the cult of the Lost Cause, refashioning his memory and beliefs in an attempt to make sense of the war, its causes, and its consequences. While some Southerners sank into depression, aligned with the victors, or fiercely opposed the new order, Lenoir withdrew to his acreage in the North Carolina mountains. There, he pursued his own vision of the South's future, one that called for greater self-sufficiency and a more efficient use of the land. For Lenoir and many fellow Confederates, the war never really ended. As he tells this compelling story, Barney offers new insights into the ways that (selective) memory informs history; through Lenoir's life, readers learn how individual choices can transform abstract historical processes into concrete actions. |
| a little history of philosophy: The Little Book of Philosophy Rachel Poulton, 2021-10-05 If you want to know your Socrates from your Sartre and your Confucius from your Kant, strap in for this whirlwind tour of the highlights of philosophy. Including accessible primers on: The early Ancient Greek philosophers and the ‘big three’: Socrates, Plato and Aristotle Key schools of philosophy and their impact on modern life Insights into the main questions philosophers have explored over the years: Who am I? What is the meaning of life? Do I have free will? Practical applications for the theories of Descartes, Kant, Wollstonecraft, Marx, Nietzsche and many more. This illuminating little book will introduce you to the key thinkers, themes and theories you need to know to understand how human ideas have sculpted the world we live in and the way we think today. |
| a little history of philosophy: The History of Philosophy A. C. Grayling, 2019-06-20 AUTHORITATIVE AND ACCESSIBLE, THIS LANDMARK WORK IS THE FIRST SINGLE-VOLUME HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY SHARED FOR DECADES 'A cerebrally enjoyable survey, written with great clarity and touches of wit' Sunday Times The story of philosophy is an epic tale: an exploration of the ideas, views and teachings of some of the most creative minds known to humanity. But there has been no comprehensive history of this great intellectual journey since 1945. Intelligible for students and eye-opening for philosophy readers, A. C. Grayling covers with characteristic clarity and elegance subjects like epistemology, metaphysics, ethics, logic, and the philosophy of mind, as well as the history of debates in these areas, through the ideas of celebrated philosophers as well as less well-known influential thinkers. The History of Philosophy takes the reader on a journey from the age of the Buddha, Confucius and Socrates. Through Christianity's dominance of the European mind to the Renaissance and Enlightenment. On to Mill, Nietzsche, Sartre, then the philosophical traditions of India, China and the Persian-Arabic world. And finally, into philosophy today. |
| a little history of philosophy: The Little Book of History DK, 2021-05-11 Journey through time and explore more than 60 of the most important events in world history! See the past come to life in the most spectacular way! From the beginning of civilization to the modern world, discover the perfect pocket-sized introduction to human history. Inside the pages of this visual reference book, you’ll find: • Bold illustrations and infographics that bring complex historical events to life • Clear, authoritative text that explains the underlying causes behind historical events, and how the events unfolded • A lightweight, compact format that makes it ideal for vacation reading • Entries that are truly international in scope Human history in your pocket From the birth of Athenian democracy to the launch of Sputnik and the Global Financial Crisis, this informative little book provides you with an overview of the most fascinating events in history that shaped our world as we know it! Get to know some of the most important thinkers and leaders throughout history such as Napoleon, Julius Caesar, and Nelson Mandela. Packed with infographics and flowcharts that explain complex concepts in a simple but exciting way, The Little Book of History is a modern twist on the good old-fashioned encyclopedia. It’s perfect for holidaymakers looking to go beyond the standard beach read. Even more Little Books to discover The Little Book of History series uses a combination of creative typography, bold infographics, and clear text to explore every area of a subject. For the perfect introduction to politics and political thought throughout history, look out for The Little Book of Politics. More titles in this series include The Little Book of Economics and The Little Book of Philosophy. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Brief History of Philosophy Derek Johnston, 2006-08-09 Offering an introduction to the subject of philosophy, this book is suitable for teenagers and students coming to philosophy for the first time, and also for those who doesn't know where to start. It examines 18 key thinkers, from Socrates to Derrida, exploring their ideas in relation to each other and to their historical and cultural contexts. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Brief History of Analytic Philosophy Stephen P. Schwartz, 2012-03-28 A Brief History of Analytic Philosophy: From Russell to Rawls presents a comprehensive overview of the historical development of all major aspects of analytic philosophy, the dominant Anglo-American philosophical tradition in the twentieth century. Features coverage of all the major subject areas and figures in analytic philosophy - including Wittgenstein, Bertrand Russell, G.E. Moore, Gottlob Frege, Carnap, Quine, Davidson, Kripke, Putnam, and many others Contains explanatory background material to help make clear technical philosophical concepts Includes listings of suggested further readings Written in a clear, direct style that presupposes little previous knowledge of philosophy |
| a little history of philosophy: A Brief History of the Philosophy of Time, Second Edition Adrian Bardon, 2024-04-12 This thoroughly revised and updated edition of Adrian Bardon's A Brief History of the Philosophy of Time is a short introduction to the history, philosophy, and science of the study of time--from the pre-Socratic philosophers through Einstein and beyond. Bardon covers subjects such as time and change, the experience of time, physical and metaphysical approaches to the nature of time, the direction of time, time travel, time and freedom of the will, and scientific and philosophical approaches to cosmology and the beginning of time. He employs helpful illustrations and keeps technical language to a minimum in bringing the resources of over 2500 years of philosophy and science to bear on some of humanity's most fundamental and enduring questions. |
| a little history of philosophy: The Big Questions Robert Solomon, Quincy Lee Centennial Professor of Philosophy Robert C Solomon, Kathleen Higgins, 2013-02-12 Solomon and Higgins's engaging text covers philosophy's central ideas in an accessible, approachable manner. You'll explore timeless big questions about the self, God, justice, and other meaningful topics, gaining the context you need for an understanding of the foundational issues, as well as the confidence to establish your own informed positions on these big questions. |
| a little history of philosophy: Reflections on the History of Art Ernst Hans Gombrich, 1987-01-01 Essays discuss Greek and Chineese art, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Dutch genre painting, Rubens, Rembrandt, art collecting, museums, and Freud's aesthetics |
| a little history of philosophy: The Story of Philosophy Will Durant, 1926 |
| a little history of philosophy: A Little History of Economics Niall Kishtainy, 2017-03-07 A lively, inviting account of the history of economics, told through events from ancient to modern times and the ideas of great thinkers in the field What causes poverty? Are economic crises inevitable under capitalism? Is government intervention in an economy a helpful approach or a disastrous idea? The answers to such basic economic questions matter to everyone, yet the unfamiliar jargon and math of economics can seem daunting. This clear, accessible, and even humorous book is ideal for young readers new to economics and for all readers who seek a better understanding of the full sweep of economic history and ideas. Economic historian Niall Kishtainy organizes short, chronological chapters that center on big ideas and events. He recounts the contributions of key thinkers including Adam Smith, David Ricardo, Karl Marx, John Maynard Keynes, and others, while examining topics ranging from the invention of money and the rise of agrarianism to the Great Depression, entrepreneurship, environmental destruction, inequality, and behavioral economics. The result is a uniquely enjoyable volume that succeeds in illuminating the economic ideas and forces that shape our world. |
| a little history of philosophy: Classical Philosophy Peter Adamson, 2014-06 Readership: Anyone interested in philosophy, the history of ideas, or the ancient Greek world |
| a little history of philosophy: A Little History of Religion Richard Holloway, 2016-08-23 For curious readers young and old, a rich and colorful history of religion from humanity’s earliest days to our own contentious times In an era of hardening religious attitudes and explosive religious violence, this book offers a welcome antidote. Richard Holloway retells the entire history of religion—from the dawn of religious belief to the twenty-first century—with deepest respect and a keen commitment to accuracy. Writing for those with faith and those without, and especially for young readers, he encourages curiosity and tolerance, accentuates nuance and mystery, and calmly restores a sense of the value of faith. Ranging far beyond the major world religions of Judaism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism, Holloway also examines where religious belief comes from, the search for meaning throughout history, today’s fascinations with Scientology and creationism, religiously motivated violence, hostilities between religious people and secularists, and more. Holloway proves an empathic yet discerning guide to the enduring significance of faith and its power from ancient times to our own. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Little History of the United States James West Davidson, 2015-09-15 How did a land and people of such immense diversity come together under a banner of freedom and equality to form one of the most remarkable nations in the world? Everyone from young adults to grandparents will be fascinated by the answers uncovered in James West Davidson’s vividly told A Little History of the United States. In 300 fast-moving pages, Davidson guides his readers through 500 years, from the first contact between the two halves of the world to the rise of America as a superpower in an era of atomic perils and diminishing resources. In short, vivid chapters the book brings to life hundreds of individuals whose stories are part of the larger American story. Pilgrim William Bradford stumbles into an Indian deer trap on his first day in America; Harriet Tubman lets loose a pair of chickens to divert attention from escaping slaves; the toddler Andrew Carnegie, later an ambitious industrial magnate, gobbles his oatmeal with a spoon in each hand. Such stories are riveting in themselves, but they also spark larger questions to ponder about freedom, equality, and unity in the context of a nation that is, and always has been, remarkably divided and diverse. |
| a little history of philosophy: Engaging Japanese Philosophy Thomas P. Kasulis, 2017-12-31 Philosophy challenges our assumptions—especially when it comes to us from another culture. In exploring Japanese philosophy, a dependable guide is essential. The present volume, written by a renowned authority on the subject, offers readers a historical survey of Japanese thought that is both comprehensive and comprehensible. Adhering to the Japanese philosophical tradition of highlighting engagement over detachment, Thomas Kasulis invites us to think with, as well as about, the Japanese masters by offering ample examples, innovative analogies, thought experiments, and jargon-free explanations. He assumes little previous knowledge and addresses themes—aesthetics, ethics, the samurai code, politics, among others—not in a vacuum but within the conditions of Japan’s cultural and intellectual history. For readers new to Japanese studies, he provides a simplified guide to pronouncing Japanese and a separate discussion of the language and how its syntax, orthography, and linguistic layers can serve the philosophical purposes of a skilled writer and subtle thinker. For those familiar with the Japanese cultural tradition but less so with philosophy, Kasulis clarifies philosophical expressions and problems, Western as well as Japanese, as they arise. Half of the book’s chapters are devoted to seven major thinkers who collectively represent the full range of Japan’s historical epochs and philosophical traditions: Kūkai, Shinran, Dōgen, Ogyū Sorai, Motoori Norinaga, Nishida Kitarō, and Watsuji Tetsurō. Nuanced details and analyses enable an engaged understanding of Japanese Buddhism, Confucianism, Shintō, and modern academic philosophy. Other chapters supply social and cultural background, including brief discussions of nearly a hundred other philosophical writers. (For additional information, cross references to material in the companion volume Japanese Philosophy: A Sourcebook are included.) In his closing chapter Kasulis reflects on lessons from Japanese philosophy that enhance our understanding of philosophy itself. He reminds us that philosophy in its original sense means loving wisdom, not studying ideas. In that regard, a renewed appreciation of engaged knowing can play a critical role in the revitalization of philosophy in the West as well as the East. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Little History of Literature John Sutherland, 2013-11-05 From The Epic of Gilgamesh to Harry Potter, this rollicking romp through the world of literature reveals how writings from all over the world can transport us and help us to make sense of what it means to be human. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Brief History of Thought Luc Ferry, 2011-12-27 “Succinct and accessible” this international bestselling survey is “perfect for anyone who wants to dip their toe into the waters of philosophy” (Matt Haig, Washington Post). From the timeless wisdom of the ancient Greeks to Christianity, the Enlightenment, existentialism, and postmodernism, Luc Ferry’s instant classic brilliantly and accessibly explains the enduring teachings of philosophy—including its profound relevance to modern daily life and its essential role in achieving happiness and living a meaningful life. This lively journey through the great thinkers will enlighten every reader, young and old. “This superb primer is proof that philosophy belongs at the center of life.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review “Ferry's openness, energy, and charm as a teacher burst through on every page. However difficult the questions he poses, his eagerness to find answers, to justify philosophy as a way of life, is infectious.” —Wall Street Journal “For everyone from the man in the street to the man in the Acropolis—a fine introduction to philosophy and its fundamental relevance to living a meaningful life.” —Thomas Cathcart and Daniel Klein, New York Times–bestselling authors of Plato and a Platypus Walk into a Bar “This is a vital book. Luc Ferry rehabilitates the ancient question, ‘What is the best way of life?’ as though our lives depended on it.” —Matthew B. Crawford, New York Times–bestselling author of Shop Class as Soulcraft “No dry academic, Ferry restores to philosophy a compelling urgency.” —Booklist, starred review |
| a little history of philosophy: New Contributions to the Philosophy of History Daniel Little, 2010-08-05 Insights developed in the past two decades by philosophers of the social sciences can serve to enrich the challenging intellectual tasks of conceptualizing, investigating, and representing the human past. Likewise, intimate engagement with the writings of historians can deepen philosophers’ understanding of the task of knowing the past. This volume brings these perspectives together and considers fundamental questions, such as: What is historical causation? What is a large historical structure? How can we best conceptualize “mentalities” and “identities”? What is involved in understanding the subjectivity of historical actors? What is involved in arriving at an economic history of a large region? How are actions and outcomes related? The arguments touch upon a wide range of historical topics -- the Chinese and French Revolutions, the extension of railroads in the nineteenth century, and the development of agriculture in medieval China. |
| a little history of philosophy: Philosophy Bites Back David Edmonds, Nigel Warburton, 2012-11-22 Philosophy Bites Back is the second book to come out of the hugely successful podcast Philosophy Bites. It presents a selection of lively interviews with leading philosophers of our time, who discuss the ideas and works of some of the most important thinkers in history. From the ancient classics of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, to the groundbreaking modern thought of Wittgenstein, Rawls, and Derrida, this volume spans over two and a half millennia of western philosophy and illuminates its most fascinating ideas. Philosophy Bites was set up in 2007 by David Edmonds and Nigel Warburton. It has had over 12 million downloads, and is listened to all over the world. |
| a little history of philosophy: Dream of Reason: A History of Western Philosophy from the Greeks to the Renaissance (New Edition) Anthony Gottlieb, 2016-08-30 His book...supplant[s] all others, even the immensely successful History of Western Philosophy by Bertrand Russell.—A. C. Grayling Already a classic, this landmark study of early Western thought now appears in a new edition with expanded coverage of the Middle Ages. This landmark study of Western thought takes a fresh look at the writings of the great thinkers of classic philosophy and questions many pieces of conventional wisdom. The book invites comparison with Bertrand Russell's monumental History of Western Philosophy, but Gottlieb's book is less idiosyncratic and based on more recent scholarship (Colin McGinn, Los Angeles Times). A New York Times Notable Book, a Los Angeles Times Best Book, and a Times Literary Supplement Best Book of 2001. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Passion for Wisdom Robert C. Solomon, Kathleen M. Higgins, 1999-01-28 A study of the world's great ideas from Plato and Aquinas to William James and Simone de Beauvoir. Aimed at those who wish to acquire a basic familiarity with the history of philosophy. |
| a little history of philosophy: Nasty, Brutish, and Short Scott Hershovitz, 2022-05-03 An NPR Best Book of 2022 * One of Christian Science Monitor's 10 best books of May “This amazing new book . . . takes us on a journey through classic and contemporary philosophy powered by questions like ‘What do we have the right to do? When is it okay to do this or that?’ They explore punishment and authority and sex and gender and race and the nature of truth and knowledge and the existence of God and the meaning of life and Scott just does an incredible job.” —Ryan Holiday, The Daily Stoic Some of the best philosophers in the world gather in surprising places—preschools and playgrounds. They debate questions about metaphysics and morality, even though they’ve never heard the words and perhaps can’t even tie their shoes. They’re kids. And as Scott Hershovitz shows in this delightful debut, they’re astoundingly good philosophers. Hershovitz has two young sons, Rex and Hank. From the time they could talk, he noticed that they raised philosophical questions and were determined to answer them. They re-created ancient arguments. And they advanced entirely new ones. That’s not unusual, Hershovitz says. Every kid is a philosopher. Following an agenda set by Rex and Hank, Hershovitz takes us on a fun romp through classic and contemporary philosophy, powered by questions like, Does Hank have the right to drink soda? When is it okay to swear? and, Does the number six exist? Hershovitz and his boys take on more weighty issues too. They explore punishment, authority, sex, gender, race, the nature of truth and knowledge, and the existence of God. Along the way, they get help from professional philosophers, famous and obscure. And they show that all of us have a lot to learn from listening to kids—and thinking with them. Hershovitz calls on us to support kids in their philosophical adventures. But more than that, he challenges us to join them so that we can become better, more discerning thinkers and recapture some of the wonder kids have at the world. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Short History of African Philosophy, Second Edition Barry Hallen, 2009-09-03 A Short History of African Philosophy discusses major ideas, figures, and schools of thought in philosophy in the African context. While drawing out critical issues in the formation of African philosophy, Barry Hallen focuses on recent scholarship and relevant debates that have made African philosophy critical to understanding the rich and complex cultural heritage of the continent. This revised edition expands the historical perspective, takes account of recent discoveries and new canonical figures, highlights new discussions about gender as a cultural and philosophical phenomenon, clarifies issues regarding indigenous cultures and human rights, and builds on the notion that African philosophy shares methods and concerns of philosophy worldwide. This short reference is an essential resource for students, scholars, and general readers. |
| a little history of philosophy: An Illustrated Brief History of Western Philosophy Anthony Kenny, 2009-02-04 This illustrated edition of Sir Anthony Kenny’s acclaimed survey of Western philosophy offers the most concise and compelling story of the complete development of philosophy available. Spanning 2,500 years of thought, An Illustrated Brief History of Western Philosophy provides essential coverage of the most influential philosophers of the Western world, among them Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Jesus, Augustine, Aquinas, Machiavelli, Descartes, Hobbes, Spinoza, Berkeley, Hume, Rousseau, Kant, Hegel, Marx, Mill, Nietzsche, Darwin, Freud, Frege, Russell, and Wittgenstein. Replete with over 60 illustrations - ranging from Dufresnoy’s The Death of Socrates, through to the title page of Thomas More’s Utopia, portraits of Hobbes and Rousseau, photographs of Charles Darwin and Bertrand Russell, Freud’s own sketch of the Ego and the Id, and Wittgenstein’s Austrian military identity card - this lucid and masterful work is ideal for anyone with an interest in Western thought. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Short History of Philosophy Peter Gibson, 2020-06-01 The world's great philosophers have always wrestled with the crucial questions about human nature and the world we live in: How should we live our lives? What is knowledge? How should society be organized? Over the centuries, philosophers have come up with an array of compelling answers to these questions. A Short History of Philosophy takes you on an entertaining and informative journey through the landscape of western philosophy from Plato to Jean-Paul Sartre. Whether discussing the origins of metaphysics, the merits of idealism, or the questions raised by existentialism, Peter Gibson brings to life the ideas of these great thinkers and carefully explains their reasoning in straightforward, easy-to-understand language. This lively, accessible guide provides the perfect starting point for anyone interested in philosophy. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Dark History of Modern Philosophy Bernard Freydberg, 2017-08-14 This provocative reassessment of modern philosophy explores its nonrational dimensions and connection to ancient mysteries. Delving beneath the principal discourses of philosophyfrom Descartes through Kant, Bernard Freydberg plumbs the previously concealed dark forces that ignite the inner power of modern thought. He contends that reason itself issues from an implicit and unconscious suppression of the nonrational. Even the modern philosophical concerns of nature and limits are undergirded by a dark side that dwells in them and makes them possible. Freydberg traces these dark sources to the poetry of Hesiod, the fragments of Heraclitus and Parmenides, and the Platonic dialogues and claims that they rear their heads again in the work of Spinoza, Schelling, and Nietzsche. Freydberg does not set forth a critique of modern philosophy but explores its intrinsic continuity with its ancient roots. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Little History of Archaeology Brian Fagan, 2018-04-10 The thrilling history of archaeological adventure, with tales of danger, debate, audacious explorers, and astonishing discoveries around the globe What is archaeology? The word may bring to mind images of golden pharaohs and lost civilizations, or Neanderthal skulls and Ice Age cave art. Archaeology is all of these, but also far more: the only science to encompass the entire span of human history—more than three million years! This Little History tells the riveting stories of some of the great archaeologists and their amazing discoveries around the globe: ancient Egyptian tombs, Mayan ruins, the first colonial settlements at Jamestown, mysterious Stonehenge, the incredibly preserved Pompeii, and many, many more. In forty brief, exciting chapters, the book recounts archaeology’s development from its eighteenth-century origins to its twenty-first-century technological advances, including remote sensing capabilities and satellite imagery techniques that have revolutionized the field. Shining light on the most intriguing events in the history of the field, this absolutely up-to-date book illuminates archaeology’s controversies, discoveries, heroes and scoundrels, global sites, and newest methods for curious readers of every age. |
| a little history of philosophy: History of Philosophy Volume 2 Frederick Copleston, 2003-06-12 Copleston, an Oxford Jesuit and specialist in the history of philosophy, created his history as an introduction for Catholic ecclesiastical seminaries. The 11-volume series gives an accessible account of each philosopher's work, and explains their relationship to the work of other philosophers. |
| a little history of philosophy: History of Philosophy Julian Marias, 2012-10-02 Thorough and lucid survey of Western philosophy from pre-Socratics to mid 20th century — major figures, currents, trends. Valuable section on contemporary philosophy — Brentano, Ortega, Heidegger, others. Brevity and clarity of exposition... — Ethics. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Little History of Science William Bynum, 2012-10-15 Science is fantastic. It tells us about the infinite reaches of space, the tiniest living organism, the human body, the history of Earth. People have always been doing science because they have always wanted to make sense of the world and harness its power. From ancient Greek philosophers through Einstein and Watson and Crick to the computer-assisted scientists of today, men and women have wondered, examined, experimented, calculated, and sometimes made discoveries so earthshaking that people understood the world—or themselves—in an entirely new way. This inviting book tells a great adventure story: the history of science. It takes readers to the stars through the telescope, as the sun replaces the earth at the center of our universe. It delves beneath the surface of the planet, charts the evolution of chemistry's periodic table, introduces the physics that explain electricity, gravity, and the structure of atoms. It recounts the scientific quest that revealed the DNA molecule and opened unimagined new vistas for exploration. Emphasizing surprising and personal stories of scientists both famous and unsung, A Little History of Science traces the march of science through the centuries. The book opens a window on the exciting and unpredictable nature of scientific activity and describes the uproar that may ensue when scientific findings challenge established ideas. With delightful illustrations and a warm, accessible style, this is a volume for young and old to treasure together. |
| a little history of philosophy: The Little Book Of Philosophy Andre Comte-Sponville, 2011-11-30 In this remarkable little book, Andre Comte-Sponville introduces the reader to the western philosophical tradition in a series of sparkling chapters on the 'big questions'. In doing so he reveals the essential bones of philosophical thought and shows why philosophy is relevant in our day-to-day lives. In his brilliant and concise writing on morality, politics, love, death, knowledge, freedom, God, atheism, art, time, Man, and wisdom, he inspires the central question of philosophy - how should we live? - and provides the reader with signposts towards a happier, wiser life. |
| a little history of philosophy: Stop Me If You've Heard This: A History and Philosophy of Jokes Jim Holt, 2008-07-17 “Finally I understand what it is I’ve been laughing at all these years.”—Jimmy Kimmel From the best-selling author of Why Does the World Exist? comes this outrageous, uproarious compendium of absurdity, filth, racy paradox, and gratuitous offensiveness—just the kind of mature philosophical reflection readers have come to expect from the ever-entertaining Jim Holt. Indeed, Stop Me If You’ve Heard This is the first book to trace the evolution of the joke all the way from the standup comics of ancient Athens to the comedy-club Seinfelds of today. After exploring humor’s history in Part One, Holt delves into philosophy in Part Two: Wall Street jokes; jokes about rednecks and atheists, bulimics and politicians; jokes you missed if you didn’t go to a Catholic girls’ school; jokes about logic and existence itself . . . all became fodder for the grand theories of Aristotle, Kant, Freud, and Wittgenstein in this heady mix of the high and low, of the ribald and profound, from America’s most beloved philosophical pundit. |
| a little history of philosophy: Leviathan Thomas Hobbes, 2012-10-03 Written during a moment in English history when the political and social structures were in flux and open to interpretation, Leviathan played an essential role in the development of the modern world. |
| a little history of philosophy: A History of Western Philosophy and Theology John M. Frame, 2015 A History of Western Philosophy and Theology is the fruit of John Frame's forty-five years of teaching philosophical subjects. No other survey of the history of Western thought offers the same invigorating blend of expositional clarity, critical insight, and biblical wisdom. The supplemental study questions, bibliographies, links to audio lectures, quotes from influential thinkers, twenty appendices, and indexed glossary make this an excellent main textbook choice for seminary- and college-level courses and for personal study. Book jacket. |
| a little history of philosophy: Corrupting the Youth James Franklin, 2003 |
| a little history of philosophy: Women of Ideas Suki Finn, 2021-04-22 Thirty leading women philosophers draw on and advance the rich heritage of the philosophical tradition to explore topics of pressing interest for today. Women of Ideas is edited by Suki Finn, based upon interviews by David Edmonds and Nigel Warburton, from Philosophy Bites, the world's foremost philosophy podcast. These conversations illuminate diverse aspects of being human: personal, social, ethical, and political. The contributors discuss the relations between humans and animals, between genders, between tastes, between cultures, and between nations. They look at some of the things that are wrong with our world, such as injustice, deprivation, and bias; they consider the role of civility, trust, and consent in our interactions. There are reflections on the history of philosophy from Plato to Beauvoir, comparisons between Western philosophy and Buddhist philosophy, and discussion of philosophy in Africa. The volume concludes by investigating how philosophy works, how it makes progress, and its role in public life. Anyone interested in philosophical reflection on themselves and our world will find much to stimulate them here. |
| a little history of philosophy: A Little Book for New Philosophers Paul Copan, 2016-10-19 What's the point of studying philosophy when we have theology? Philosophy sometimes suffers from an inferiority complex in the church. But Paul Copan contends that it is possible to affirm theology's preeminence without diminishing the contribution of philosophy. This brief introduction surveys philosophy's basic aims and defends its function in the Christian life. |
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