Set to be released tomorrow, “Philosophy: An Innovative Introduction”by Dr. Charles Johnson and Michael Boylan features a unique, engaging approach to introduce students to philosophy.
It combines traditional readings and exercises with fictive narratives starring central figures in the history of the field from Plato to Martin Luther King, Jr. The book makes innovative use of compelling short stories from two writers who have prominently combined philosophy and fiction in their work. These narratives illuminate pivotal aspects of the carefully selected classic readings that follow.
This gives students two ways to understand the philosophical positions: through indirect argument in fiction and through direct, deductive presentations. Study questions and writing exercises accompany each set of readings and help students grasp the material and create their own arguments.
“’Philosophy: An Innovative Introduction’ is an exciting book that promises to invigorate courses in philosophy, ethics, and the humanities.The authors’ innovative approach pairs the philosophies of major figures such as Plato, Kant, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., with short stories that engage those figures in thought-provoking ways. The result is that the philosophical tradition is brought to life for students as abstract ideas become vivid and compelling.” —Linda Furgerson Selzer, Penn State University
“This unusual introduction to philosophy has broad appeal without sacrificing intellectual rigor.” —Felicia Nimue Ackerman, Brown University
“This book is a tour de force. . . . Designed not only to inform but also to stimulate our feelings and imagination, the creative imagery of the fictional stories accompanying the philosophical texts succeed in instantly transporting us to the everyday lives of these famous philosophers.” – Edward Spence, Centre for Applied Philosophy and Public Ethics, Charles Sturt University
Purchase “Philosophy” on Amazon here.
Purchase “Philosophy” on Amazon here.