Philosophical Explorations

by Steven M. Cahn

This distinctive blending of an original, easy-to-read monograph with selections from primary sources in the history of philosophy will fill a unique niche in the libraries of both professionals and interested readers. Well-written and accessible introductions to philosophy are difficult to find, but Dr. Cahn has remedied this by offering fascinating discussions of three of the most talked-about topics in Western freewill, the existence of God, and the reasonableness of value judgments. Each subject is presented in a form that maximizes clarity and readability. Fourteen selections from primary sources assist in amplifying the issues raised and, in doing so, illustrate a wide range of philosophical perspectives.

231 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1988

About the author

Steven M. Cahn, Ph.D. (Philosophy, Columbia University, 1966; A.B., Columbia College, 1963), teaches academic ethics, philosophy of religion, and philosophy of education at the Graduate Center and has published widely in the field of philosophy and education.

Cahn joined the Graduate Center as professor of philosophy and dean of graduate studies in 1983. He was named provost and vice president for academic affairs in 1984, remaining in that position until 1992. He previously taught at Dartmouth College, Vassar College, the University of Rochester, New York University, and the University of Vermont, where from 1973 to 1980 he headed the department of philosophy. He held executive positions with the Exxon Education Foundation, the Rockefeller Foundation, and the National Endowment for the Humanities, and he is longtime president of the John Dewey Foundation.