Teach Yourself Philosophy

by Mel Thompson

Published 18 May 1995
Do-It-Yourself Descartes . . . and more Teach Yourself Philosophy explores the key philosophical thinkers, arguments, and works that have shaped our society. It also includes discussions of contemporary issues and arguments.

- Does God exist?

- Do miracles happen?

- Should we take religious languages seriously?

These are just some of the questions examined in TEACH YOURSELF PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION. They are fundamental to any intelligent understanding of life and are also issues which every believer needs to explore.

TEACH YOURSELF PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION examines what religion is and how it is related to our overall understanding of life.

- Examine how religion relates to the scientific world view.

- Explore what religious experience is and what we can learn from it.

- Investigate the human need for the world to make sense.

Ethics

by Mel Thompson

Published 16 June 1994
Part of the "Teach Yourself" series, this book offers a thorough grounding for those who want to do further study in ethics or philosophy or who are concerned with professional ethics in the fields of law, medicine or business. This volume introduces some of the main ethical theories, and looks at the contribution of many thinkers, both ancient and modern, including Aristotle, Aquinas, Hobbes, Kant, Nietzsche, Ayer and Rawls. It studies moral choices - the values that lie behind them, the reasons people give for them and the language they use to describe them. As well as a comprehensive historical survey of the subject, this book: systematically explores important moral issues, such as whether people are free to choose what to do and what is meant by moral choice; studies important areas of moral thought, such as personal relationships, law and order and global issues; and sets debates in contemporary contexts.


Teach Yourself Political Philosophy is a fascinating guide to the principles upon which our legal and political systems are founded. It explores the key political concepts that underpin our society (what exactly is freedom? what makes us think democracy is the best form of government? where is the balance between rights and responsibilities?) and unravels fundamental political and economic theories such as capitalism, Marxism, conservatism and anarchism. Each of these concepts and theories are put into context by looking at the key figures in political thought from Aristotle and Hobbes to Rawls and Wollstonecraft. Political Philosophy need not be confined to the past or the realms of academia - this book brings the issues to life and discusses the questions raised daily by our politicians, their critics and the media. Is political philosophy dead? How does political philosophy shed light on environmentalism, multi-culturalism and globalization? What are human rights?

Eastern Philosophy

by Mel Thompson

Published 1 May 1999

Understand Philosophy

by Mel Thompson

Published 13 October 2010
Find out the thinking behind modern thinking "Understand Philosophy" is the essential introduction to the history of Western thought. Covering all the key thinkers, both ancient and modern, and all the major branches of philosophy, it will give you new insights about the world we live in. Packed full of examples and clear explanations and with key terms defined and explained, it is ideal whether you are student looking for a quick refresher or just want to explore this fascinating topic out of personal interest. Also included: Up-to-date examples and practical applications so you can better understand difficult concepts, works, characters and theories Context and significance of all major philosophical texts Discussion of contemporary issues and arguments One and five-minute introductions to key principles to get you started Lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience Tests in the book and online to keep track of your progress Extra online articles at www.teachyourself.com to give you a richer understanding of the basics of philosophy Topics include: The theory of knowledge, The philosophy of science, Language and Logic, The philosophy of mind, The philosophy of religion, Ethics, Political philosophy, Continental philosophy, Some other branches of philosophy, The scope of philosophy today