Quick and Concise: Philosophy

What makes us the same person tomorrow? Do we truly have free will? Do we have knowledge of the external world? From the meaning of life to the nature of art, from morality to personal identity, Quick and Concise: Philosophy takes you on a journey through some of the most profound and puzzling questions of philosophy. Featuring the ideas of thinkers like David Hume, Albert Camus, G.E. Moore, Derek Parfit and more, the book presents a rich, diverse dialogue that spans centuries and cultures. Philosophical issues are approached from a present-day empirical and global perspective, with a sprinkling of Indian philosophy too. Whether you're new to philosophy or a seasoned thinker, this primer offers engaging discussions, accessible explanations and compelling arguments from multiple perspectives. Rather than simply telling you what to believe, it invites you to question, challenge and refine your own views. Deep yet approachable, intellectual yet personal – this is philosophy as it was meant to be: a conversation that never ends.“This is an accessible and wide-ranging introduction to the main areas of philosophy. Throughout, Chakravarty uses engaging examples and thought experiments to bring ideas alive for the reader. The book is also noteworthy for its integration of Indian philosophy – ranging from the Bhagavad Gita to the Nyāya school – with the Western canon. Students and lay readers alike will find much to engage with in this little volume.”– Hrishikesh Joshi, University of Arizona, USA and author of Why It’s OK to Speak Your Mind.