Beginning Philosophy

Preface 1. Introduction What Is Philosophy? How Is Philosophy Possible? A Survey of the Topics Covered in the Text Why Do Philosophy? 2. Some Methodological Tools Definition and Meaning Logic Inference to the Best Explanation Cognitive Errors Methodological Tools at Work Logical Definitions Chart 3. Theory of Knowledge Epistemology and Epistemic Agency The General Problem of Skepticism Specific Skeptical Problems Inference to the Best Explanation A Challenge to the Theory of Knowledge Misconceptions about the Theory of Knowledge 4. The Nature of the External World Direct Realism Scientific Realism Phenomenalism A Final Remark on the Debate Between the Realists and the Phenomenalists 5. The Mind/Body Problem Dualistic Theories Materialism Artificial Intelligence as a Challenge for Materialism Conclusion Misconceptions about the Mind/Body Problem 6. Normative Ethics Some Problematic Theories of Moral Obligation Two Main Approaches to Moral Obligation: Consequentialism and Deontology Mixed Theories and What They Show about Normative Ethics 7. Metaethics Objectivist Theories of Moral Judgments Subjectivism A Final Assessment of the Dispute Between the Objectivists and Subjectivists 8. The Free Will Problem Six Theories Summary of the Six Theories The Four Questions Considered The Case for Subjectivism Misconceptions about the Free Will Problem 9. The Existence of God Faith-Based Arguments for the Existence of God A Posteriori Arguments for the Existence of God An A Priori Argument for the Existence of God: The Ontological Argument The Case for Atheism 10.The Problem of Evil The Best of All Possible Worlds Evil as a Necessary Part of Any World The Virtue (Soul-Making) Defense The Free Will Defense Animal Suffering A Problem of Goodness? 11. A Total Picture Philosophy as Worldview Construction A Worldview The Meaning of Life Discussion Questions For Further Reading Philosophical Quotes Glossary of Philosophical Terms Glossary of Names Works Cited Index Chapters 3-10 open with an Introduction Chapters 1-10 include Guide Questions, Review Questions for Examinations, Discussion Questions, and For Further Reading