What is this thing called Philosophy?

by Duncan Pritchard (Editor)

What is this thing called Philosophy? is the definitive textbook for all who want a thorough introduction to the field. It introduces philosophy using a question-led approach that reflects the discursive nature of the discipline. Edited by Duncan Pritchard, each section is written by a high-profile contributor focusing on a key area of philosophy, and contains three or four question-based chapters offering an accessible point of engagement.

The core areas of philosophy introduced and explained

Ethics Political Philosophy Aesthetics Epistemology Philosophy of Mind Philosophy of Language Metaphysics Philosophy of Science Philosophy of Religion The Meaning of Life This second edition has been revised throughout, with chapters being brought up to date and improved. There is also a new section on the philosophy of language and the addition of 'spotlight' questions at the end of each section, as well as an updated Introduction and Glossary of Key Terms.

An outstanding textbook written by experienced teachers, What is this thing called Philosophy? is ideal for students approaching philosophy for the first time.

Genres: Philosophy, Nonfiction

Kindle Edition

Expected publication December 2, 2025

About the author

Duncan Pritchard FRSE is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Edinburgh, UK. His main research area is epistemology, and he has published widely in this field, including the books Epistemic Luck (2005), Knowledge (2009), The Nature and Value of Knowledge (with A. Millar & A. Haddock, 2010), and Epistemological Disjunctivism (2012). In 2007 he was awarded a Phillip Leverhulme Prize for his research. In 2011 he was elected to a Fellowship of the Royal Society of Edinburgh

Reviews

[Kevin Stilley · Rating 2 out of 5]

The title "What is This Thing Called Philosophy" is an appropriate title because I think that a few of the contributors to the work don't really know and were helping someone would help them understand. Disappointing.

[Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is probably the best introductory textbook for anyone looking to get a good grasp of the main areas of philosophy.