Author Description
Philosophy and the Human Condition: An Anthology brings together a rich collection of historically arranged readings on the crucial philosophical problems related to the human condition and human nature. Its contents are drawn from a wide range of sources, including the traditional works of Western philosophers from Plato to the present day; relevant extracts from religious texts; and contributions by women, traditions outside of the western philosophical canon, and other disciplines. Each reading selection is accompanied by an introduction. An extended introduction to philosophy at the beginning of the text addresses each of six principal issues that will be prominent in the reading selections drawn from the history of philosophy--the relation of mind and body; personal immortality; freedom of the will; the question of whether humans are naturally benevolent or naturally brutal; the nature and possibility of human happiness; and philosophical issues relating to race and gender--making the text an ideal all-in-one resource for introductory courses in philosophy.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This anthology investigates the fundamental philosophical questions defining the human condition through a curated selection of historical and contemporary texts. Brian R. Clack and Tyler Hower compile a diverse range of primary sources to provide a comprehensive framework for introductory study. By integrating Western canonical works with religious texts and non-Western perspectives, the authors establish a multi-dimensional approach to understanding human nature. The text serves as a pedagogical tool designed to guide students through complex inquiries regarding existence, morality, and identity.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- Historical readings spanning from Plato to modern philosophical discourse
- Six core thematic modules: mind-body dualism, immortality, free will, human benevolence, happiness, and race and gender
- Editorial introductions for every individual reading selection
Scope Limits
- The text focuses primarily on introductory-level survey and does not provide exhaustive analysis of every philosophical school
- It does not offer a singular unified theory of the human condition, but rather a collection of diverse viewpoints
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Educators frequently utilize this anthology as a foundational resource for undergraduate philosophy courses due to its breadth and structured thematic organization. Experts note that the inclusion of diverse voices alongside traditional Western canon provides a balanced and accessible entry point for students.
Page Count:
688
Publication Date:
2017-11-15
ISBN-10:
0190253584
ISBN-13:
9780190253585
Philosophy
Human Nature
Anthology
Metaphysics
Academic
Ethics