Academic philosophy can be puzzling to newcomers. The conventions, terms, and expectations entrenched among philosophers aren't always clear from the outside. Why are philosophers so preoccupied with finding "the truth"-doesn't everyone have their own philosophy? Is philosophy so deep and difficult that its literature has to be incomprehensible? What kinds of arguments can there be for a philosophical position? Where does the evidence come from? Why is there so much jargon-wouldn't it be better to do away with it altogether? What exactly is a "thought experiment," and how should one be conducted? Best-selling author and retired philosophy professor Robert Martin answers these questions and many more, offering a practical guide to arguing and writing philosophically. Anecdotes, jokes, asides, digressions, oddments, and entertainments are included throughout, providing for an informal and opinionated introduction that doesn't shy away from the nuts and bolts of philosophical argument. A useful glossary of common philosophical terminology and a guide to Chicago Style citation are included.

About the Author

Robert M. Martin is Professor of Philosophy (retired) at Dalhousie University and author of numerous philosophy books, including Philosophical Conversations and the best-seller There Are Two Errors in the the Title of This Book.

Reviews

"A unique and wonderful book! Wise and witty in equal measure, it makes the process of thinking and arguing about the fundamental philosophical issues come alive in a way that I have never seen before. Written in a relaxed, informal style and peppered with references to contemporary culture, it will be enjoyed by anyone interested in developing their skills in thinking clearly about the perennial issues of the human condition." - Paul Boghossian, New York University

"Displaying his characteristic informality, wit, charm, good humor, and irreverence, Martin offers insights and provocative suggestions that help improve philosophy students' ability to think, write, and argue philosophically. They also remind us how to enjoy doing philosophy." - Mason Cash, University of Central Florida

"A practical guide for producing philosophical truth: a how-to manual for clear and effective argumentation, with advice on how and why to avoid the dogma, obscurity, and pretension that often becloud the discipline. Informal, friendly, personal, opinionated, engaging, and funny, this book belongs on the shelf of every philosophy student." - Sheldon Wein, Saint Mary's University

Book Information
ISBN 9781554813377
Author Robert M. Martin
Format Paperback
Page Count 160
Imprint Broadview Press Ltd
Publisher Broadview Press Ltd
Weight(grams) 200g
Dimensions(mm) 216mm * 140mm * 9mm