• A to Z of Philosophy (2009)
  • Author: Alexander Moseley
  • Publisher: Continuum
  • Publication Date: January 27, 2009
  • Print Length: 272 Pages
  • Product Description

A to Z of Philosophy is a fun, concise and accessible introduction to a fascinating subject. Ideal for the general reader or first-year student, this A to Z guide covers all the key terms, concepts and thinkers. The book offers more than 100 entries on topics from Animal Ethics to Wittgenstein and includes witty anecdotes and handy tips on further reading. Entries cover all the key concepts and figures in philosophy, but also include philosophical looks at everyday topics such as food, love, happiness and sex. No prior knowledge of philosophy is required to enjoy this reader-friendly guide – this is the ideal reference tool for anyone starting out in philosophy.

  • About the Author

Alexander Moseley lectured in philosophy before setting up a private educational service in the UK. He is the author of several books, including an educational biography of John Locke, An Introduction to Political Philosophy, and An A-Z of Philosophy.

Alexander Moseley has taught philosophy at the universities of Stirling and Edinburgh, UK, and Evansville, USA.

  • Reviews

“Alexander Moseley has written a clear, useful, and often witty primer on the key figures and concepts of philosophy. Undergraduates and general readers new to the subject will be in his debt.” Edward Feser, Pasadena City College, USA

“Philosophy, with its ancient pedigree and steep learning curve, seems to demand encyclopedias and patient introductions. Yet, with all the excellent print and Internet resources available, is another really necessary?…on the whole the work is hit-and-miss, falling prey to that temptation to drop names and linguistics formulas in secondary works of philosophy regardless of necessity and without explanation. It is difficult to discern the intended audience here: the complete newcomer will find that the work requires a prerequisite familiarity with philosophical language, while advanced readers are better served by the large number of more rigorous and lucid introductions. An optional purchase.” Steven Chabot, Library Journal, Vol. 134 No.2, February 1, 2009, Sanford Lakoff

‘This is an outstanding single-volume synopsis of the key people and themes in the history of Western philosophy. Moseley’s authoritative command of the subject is enhanced by an informal writing style that is free of unnecessary technical jargon.
While the book’s alphabetical arrangement makes it a valuable reference work, its narrative structure flows so smoothly that it can be enjoyably read cover to cover. If you are new to philosophy, this is the place to begin; if you are already philosophically adept, you will appreciate the book as a convenient repository of philosophical knowledge.’
Professor James Fieser, University of Tennessee, USA