Philosophy
Key Texts

This title for beginners is an introduction to philosophy and gives a clear, readable overview of five major texts by Aristotle, Descartes, Hume, Sartre and Russell. It provides help in how to analyse these sources and encourages the reader to question the arguments and positions presented.

Philosophy: Key Texts is a clear, concise and engaging introduction to some of the most important works of Western philosophy. Designed for complete beginners, it unlocks five classic texts by Aristotle, Descartes, Hume, Sartre and Russell. The main arguments of each work are vividly brought to life, along with a selection of major criticisms which will help you to think about and question the positions presented. A general introduction provides essential advice on how to read philosophy effectively. Each chapter contains: - an introduction which sets out the context of the book under discussion and its background - a systematic commentary on the text - a summary and glossary of key terms to help you understand the main concepts - suggestions for further reading Invaluable at the start of a course of study, as a revision aid, or as a lucid, jargon-free guide for anyone who wants an insight into philosophy, Philosophy: Key Texts can be used independently of, or together with, its companion volume Philosophy: Key Themes.

Preface Introduction Aristotle: Nicomachean Ethics (c.334-323 BC)
Rene Descartes: Meditations on First Philosophy (1641)
David Hume: An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding (1748) Bertrand Russell: The Problems of Philosophy (1912) Jean-Paul Sartre: Existentialism and Humanism (1947) Glossary and Further Reading Index