A Brief Guide to Ideas : Turning Points in the History of Human Thought

by William Raeper, Linda Smith

A popular introduction to the history of Western religion and philosophy, this volume contains information on all familiar names in the fields as well as more obscure contributors to the broad scope of intellectual pursuit.

Genres: Philosophy

394 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1997

About the author

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/peo...

Reviews

[David Withun · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall, this is a good introduction to some of the most important concepts in Western thought. Unfortunately, the good is occasionally broken by a single profoundly off-the-mark statement. If the reader can get past these by spotting and ignoring them, the introductory material is otherwise excellent in its inclusion of very succinct summaries of difficult material and fascinating, insightful quotes by related authors. The discussion questions included at the end of the book are great prompts for classroom discussion and activities that any teacher would benefit from taking a look at. This book is in serious need of a bibliography. I recommend this book for those who are already familiar with the material but wish to find ways to convey the information to a wider audience meaningfully and engagingly.

[Bill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm glad to have this handy resource as a part of my library. Beginning with epistemology, and an examination of the foundational ideas of Plato and Aristotle for Western thought, the authors move through the history of philosophical thought. Their guide through history examines not only Christian thought, but also the development of Humanism, and the construct of society.

In the end, the authors ask their readers to consider their own biases, and perspectives, encouraging the idea of God to continue to be a part of the field of philosophy and modern dialogue.