Philosophical Dilemmas: Building a Worldview (Philosophy of Mind Series) - Softcover

Washburn, Phil

9780195106930: Philosophical Dilemmas: Building a Worldview (Philosophy of Mind Series)

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0195106938 ISBN 13: 9780195106930

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1997

Lucidly written, this extensive and very original introduction to philosophy features over fifty brief, jargon-free essays arranged in pairs. Each pair answers one of the principal philosophical questions, such as "Does God exist?" or "Are we free?", with two opposing points of view. On the topic of relativism, for example, one essay argues that morality is created by society and relative to it, while the other claims that moral standards are absolute and universal. Each essay takes a definite stand and promotes it vigorously, creating a sharp contrast between the two positions. While the essays often employ standard arguments of great philosophers, they present the ideas in contemporary language with vivid examples. The accessible style and conflicting answers engage students and promote class discussion. While other textbooks present a series of excerpts and theories without attempting to coordinate them into a larger picture, Philosophical Dilemmas encourages students in introductory philosophy courses to think for themselves and to begin constructing their own worldviews.

"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.

About the Author:

Phil Washburn teaches in the General Studies Program at the School of Continuing Education at New York University.

Review:

"This is a clear and comprehensive book which can be an effective tool to introduce undergraduates to the basic problems of philosophy."--S.N. Fratantaro, Providence College

"A well-written, provocative introductory text."--Wendy C. Turgeon, St. Joseph's College

"Excellent text to move students from being introduced to philosophy to thinking philosophically."--Stephen J. Nichols, Lancaster Bible College

"Easy to read and understand. Students found the readings interesting."--Wes Clizer, Walla Walla Community College

"Good categores; well laid out. Very accessible to students."--Craig Payne, Indian Hills Community College

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.