Knowledge, Nature, and Norms: An Introduction to Philosophy

Find everything you need for a solid introduction to philosophy with this brief, powerful text. One of the most concise introductory philosophy anthologies available, KNOWLEDGE, NATURE, AND NORMS: AN INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY features classical philosophy readings, short fiction, and literature from popular writers, as well as a wealth of effective learning tools. Concise, well-edited selections are designed to give first-time philosophy students what you need to succeed--a well-crafted focus on the essential elements of philosophical debate. Integrated learning tools, such as a comprehensive introductory essay at the beginning of the text, provides an overview of how to approach philosophy. Engaging Chapter Introductions highlight key arguments, while Reading Comprehension and Review Questions draw your attention to key ideas. A robust companion website further enhances learning with self-assessment exercises, study guides, and links to philosophical and other helpful resources. With this anthology, you'll find a complete range of philosophical topics, including key issues in epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics. This thorough introduction is all within a book that's one-third the length of a typical anthology for cost savings and unmatched clarity.

Customer Reviews:

Great into to philosophy!

By Jeremiah Yich "drag0?" - December 22, 2008

This was my book for Philosophy 101. I thoroughly enjoyed the class (though maybe mostly because the teacher rocked). This book starts off each section and chapter with commentary on the topic and authors that follow.

This thematic (as opposed to chronological) style of teaching philosophy works great. It allows you to directly compare and contrast what different philosophers thought about topics.

Also unlike many textbooks the texts of this books are direct passages from the philosophers themselves! I prefer this to the summary of a philosopher's ideas, but at times it can be a hard and thick read.

Satisfied

By eggiwegs - August 8, 2012

I purchased a used book. Book was in good condition. It is very compact. A few lines of highlighting. As for content...

Pros:
- Interesting introductory topics
- An excellent anthology of ancient and contemporary essays to supplement topics, enhance understanding
- Succinct yet comprehensive introductions to topics
- Good overview of basic logic

Cons:
- Frequent typos
- It isn't really a textbook. That is, it doesn't have margin panels with vocabulary review, side topics, topic review, thinking questions, etc. as a usual textbook would have. However, it does have review questions at the end of each essay. Again, this isn't really a textbook; it's more of an anthology/textbook combo with the balance heavily skewed toward anthology. The "integrative learning tools" the product description mentions are limited to the introductions, bolded vocabulary, and logical foundation lessons; it is not your traditional textbook.
- For a total... read more