First published in 1961, Forrest E. Baird's revision of Philosophic Classics continues the tradition of providing generations of students with high quality course material. Using the complete works, or where appropriate, complete sections of works, this anthology allows philosophers to speak directly to students. Esteemed for providing the best available translations, Philosophic Classics: From Plato to Derrida, features complete works or complete sections of the most important works by the major thinkers, as well as shorter samples from transitional thinkers.
Forrest Baird's revisions of Philosophic Classics, Prentice Hall's long-standing philosophy series, continue the tradition begun in 1961, to provide generations of students with anthologies of high quality in the history of Western philosophy. Using the complete works or, where appropriate, complete sections of works, this series allows philosophers to speak directly to students.
This series includes texts central to the thinker's own philosophy, using the best available translations. Introductions to each reading are divided into three sections:
- Biographical Provides a glimpse into the life of the philosopher;
- Philosophical Presents a résumé of the philosopher's thought; and
- Bibliographical Offers suggestions for further reading.
In addition, drawings, photographs, and time lines help put the readings into context. In short, every effort has been made to help the reader understand primary source materials.
"Students with little or no background in philosophy would likely find it difficultif not impossibleto comprehend the works of many of the philosophers addressed in each volume on their own. However, this text's informative introductions and careful selection of readings make it possible for students to get a foothold in their primary texts....Students are afforded the opportunity to engage with the works of these illustrious but often inscrutable thinkers." Jennifer McMahon, Centre College
"This collection is by far the best I have seen in this area....And I certainly prefer having all of my material together in one text rather than having students purchase half a dozen books, which then still require supplementation. I cannot imagine a better format or selection of materials that would tempt me away from this collection for another." Ted Toadvine, Emporia State University
