Core Questions in Philosophy

Core Questions in Philosophy Synopsis

Writtten in an engaging lecture-style format, this 8th edition of Core Questions in Philosophy shows students how philosophy is best used to evaluate many different kinds of arguments and to construct sound theories. Well-known historical texts are discussed, not as a means to honor the dead or merely to describe what various philosophers have thought but to engage with, criticize, and even improve ideas from the past. In addition-because philosophy cannot function apart from its engagement with the wider society-traditional and contemporary philosophical problems are brought into dialogue with the physical, biological, and social sciences. Text boxes highlight key concepts, and review questions, discussion questions, and a glossary of terms are also included.

Core Questions in Philosophy has served as a premier introductory textbook for three decades, with updates to each new edition.

Key updates to this 8th edition include:

• A new chapter, "Probability and Bayes' Theorem"
• A new explanation of the concept of "soundness," as a useful tool in assessing arguments

• A clearer explanation, in the chapter on evolution, of the crucial biological idea that the similarities of different species provide evidence of their common ancestry
• A new discussion of evolutionary altruism in the chapter on psychological egoism
• A presentation of two interesting arguments from historically important Islamic and Confusian philosophers
• Improved clarity and updated material from philosophy and empirical research, throughout

Revisions to the online list of recommended resources include:

• Additional recommendations of supplementary readings, with the inclusion of more work from female philosophers
• New recommended videos and podcasts, all organized by their relevance to each chapter in the book