Classics of Philosophy : Book Review

"Classics of Philosophy" by Louis P. Pojman is a thorough anthology that introduces readers to the most important philosophical works throughout history. This comprehensive book covers a wide range of topics, featuring excerpts from renowned philosophers like Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Kant, and Nietzsche, among others.

The book begins with an introductory chapter that provides valuable context for studying philosophy and explains its significance and relevance. Pojman explores various philosophical themes, including metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and social and political philosophy. Each chapter contains significant content from different philosophers, enabling readers to engage with diverse perspectives and arguments.

One of the notable strengths of this anthology is its organization and structure. Pojman arranges the excerpts in a logical manner, allowing readers to trace the historical development of philosophical ideas. The author also provides insightful commentary and analysis, which helps readers grasp complex concepts more easily. Additionally, Pojman includes biographical information on each philosopher, deepening readers' understanding of their intellectual contributions.

Moreover, "Classics of Philosophy" is suitable for both students and general readers interested in philosophy. The book serves as a solid foundation for newcomers to the subject, presenting key concepts and arguments without overwhelming readers with technical jargon. For seasoned philosophers, the anthology offers an opportunity to revisit classic texts and gain new perspectives on familiar ideas.

In summary, "Classics of Philosophy" by Louis P. Pojman is a valuable resource that provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the major works of philosophy. With its thoughtful organization, enlightening commentary, and inclusion of diverse philosophical voices, the book comes highly recommended for anyone interested in exploring the rich history of philosophical thought.

What are readers saying?

Louis P. Pojman's book "Classics of Philosophy" has received a range of reviews, with some positive and some negative feedback. The majority of reviewers found the book to be a valuable resource for studying philosophy. They praised Pojman's selection of classic texts from renowned philosophers such as Plato, Descartes, and Nietzsche. Readers appreciated the book's inclusion of a wide range of philosophical ideas, which helped foster critical thinking. Another aspect that was highly regarded was the clear and concise introductions that provided important context for understanding complex ideas.

However, some reviewers expressed dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the book. They felt that Pojman's commentaries on the texts were too brief and did not adequately explore the depth of the philosophers' ideas. In addition, a few readers found the organization of the book to be confusing, making it difficult to navigate through the various texts and commentaries.

Several reviewers noted that "Classics of Philosophy" is more suitable for introductory courses rather than for advanced studies. They felt that the book lacked the necessary depth and complexity required for a deeper understanding of the subject.

Overall, the book has received a rating of 3.86 out of 5 stars, indicating a generally positive response from readers. It has been praised for its selection of classic texts and its ability to inspire curiosity in philosophy. However, there have been criticisms regarding the brevity of the commentaries and the organization of the book. Despite these criticisms, many readers have found "Classics of Philosophy" to be a valuable resource for studying philosophy and gaining a deeper understanding of the subject matter.