Introduction to Philosophy: A Survey

Introduction to Philosophy: A Survey provides the opportunity to introduce philosophy and its three main divisions: metaphysics, epistemology and axiology. It also presents the possibility for a sustained discussion about the relation of philosophy to religion, history, morality, rationality, and how to live a meaningful life. The final several readings allow for a substantial engagement with the philosophy of technology. In this text you will find a sample of primary source writings by Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Nietzsche, Heidegger and others. Plato's dialogues dominate the text, as any introduction to philosophy must take a deep dive into the concerns and style of Platonic philosophy. Principle to this exposure is a confrontation with Socrates and his methods and maxims presented in the early dialogues. Additionally, short secondary sources introduce certain texts and other philosophers.