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The Handy Philosophy Answer Book (Handy Answer Books)

The Handy Philosophy Answer Book (Handy Answer Books)

Current price: $54.95
Publication Date: January 1st, 2010
Publisher:
Visible Ink Press
ISBN:
9781578592265
Pages:
504
Usually Ships in 1 to 5 Days

Description

Plato, Aristotle, Nietzsche, Sartre, and many more. Who were they? What did they say? Why should we care? How did changing philosophical thought affect the history of civilization? How does philosophy affect pop culture, politics and government, and our everyday lives?

Combining a basic history of philosophical thought with the often quirky personal stories of famous philosophers, The Handy Philosophy Answer Book introduces the reader to the world of philosophy. This comprehensive survey analyzes the collective effort of philosophers throughout history in the pursuit of truth and wisdom. It explores the tangible significance of philosophical thought to modern society and civilization as a whole, and answers more than 1,000 questions, including ...

What was the Enlightenment?Why did the Pythagorians avoid fava beans?How was Skepticism related to the scientific revolution?Was S oslash;ren Kierkegaard's life "cursed"?How did philosopher A. J. Ayer defeat professional heavyweight boxer Mike Tyson?What are the current trends in philosophy and how are they related to feminism, environmentalism, and African American studies?How is Confucianism relevant to contemporary Western philosophy?

The Handy Philosophy Answer Book explains philosophical fundamentals. It looks at the various schools of thought. It explores the deep--and sometimes odd--questions posed by philosophers. This comprehensive survey brings us the lives and the impacts of philosophy's greatest thinkers. With more than 130 photos and illustrations, this tome is richly illustrated, and its helpful bibliography and extensive index add to its usefulness.

About the Author

Naomi Zack, PhD, is a professor of philosophy at the University of Oregon who has also taught at the University at Albany and the State University of New York. She is the author of "Inclusive Feminism," "Philosophy of Science and Race," "Thinking About Race," and "Women of Color and Philosophy." She lives in Eugene, Oregon.

Praise for The Handy Philosophy Answer Book (Handy Answer Books)

"Whether one is seeking a quick overview of the history of philosophy, a period, a person, or a school of thoughtor building one’s philosophical vocabulary via the glossarythis book is a valuable introduction."  Booklist



"With a wide range of information suitable for various knowledge basesfrom junior high to junior collegethis is an ideal resource for anyone looking to get a better grasp of the history of thought."  Independent Publisher



"Written to be an accessible reference book . . . [t]he material is presented via brief answers to a series of questions."  ForeWord Reviews



"Naomi Zack introduces the world of philosophy to young readers and general readers in an easy-to-use question-and-answer format. The book is recommended for high school libraries and public libraries. It would be of interest to the casual reader with a general interest in philosophy."  American Reference Books Annual



"The writing is clear and easy to read, and the inclusion of photographs and boxed sidebars adds visual appeal. Summing Up: Recommended."  Choice