Philosophy: The Power of Ideas

I used an earlier edition of this textbook to study for my comprehensive final exams for the completion of my M.A. in Philosophy. Everything I needed to know was in this textbook. This is an excellent comprehensive textbook, covering all of the major areas of philosophy.

This book is the Cadillac of introductory textbooks, the finest text of its kind. The depth and breadth of the authors' approach is unparalled. No better textbook for "intro. to phil." courses can be found in the English language. I can't wait until the next ed. comes out. Even if I did not use this book, I would read it myself, for fun. Superb.

I'm a trained scientist who has dabbled in philosophical readings all my life. I picked this book up some years ago to aid me in my own philosophical study. FROM A STUDENT'S PERSPECTIVE, it is the best general introduction to philosophy I've ever come across (and I've looked at dozens). It is well organized, which is always desired by the introductory student, and is very readable, which is desired by anyone. The writing also has a touch of irony and wit, which I enjoy greatly. I must say that the several chapters on Metaphysics certainly demystified that topic for me. (Though I HEAVILY 'felt' much favored toward the Russell Analytical camp from the "get-go". Continental philosophy seems just akin to refuse.) I strongly recommend this book.

This book was the required text for my Intro to Philosophy course. In addition to being very informative and easy to follow, it was a pretty good read. My only qualm concerning this book was the lack of pretty colors. Pfft.

When I first bought the book I was as ususal skeptical about an 'introduction' to philosophy; expecting to get essay length descriptions of ancient philosophies for my money. But I was pleasantly surprised to find the book maintaining a fine balance between including most of the well-known philosophers and philosophical disciplines and expounding on their philosophy.I think it is a very good starting point for a beginner in philosophy in the sense that once you get an idea of what certain philosophers were all about, you have the option of choosing who appeals to you most.....and then go ahead from there.Five well-deserved stars to it !