From Wonder to Wisdom: Introductory Readings in Philosophy familiarizes students with key, foundational selections in Western philosophy. It features engaging readings about God, the mind, knowledge, and human morality to help students better understand both themselves and those around them.
The anthology begins with a part dedicated to Socrates, known as the “father” of Western philosophy and a model of the classic philosopher, someone engaged in rigorous intellectual activities and constantly challenging the status quo to resolve dilemmas and better understand the human condition. Part Two explores various perspectives on the existence of God and how that existence, or lack thereof, can shape an individual’s understanding of the nature of reality. In Part Three, students explore the mind-body problem, and read varying perspectives on the nature of the existence of the mind. Part Four explores human knowledge and highlights the debates during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries between rationalists and empiricists. In the final part, students read selections on morality and the different views on the status of moral judgments.
Designed to provide novice students with an enlightening introduction to the discipline, From Wonder to Wisdom is an ideal textbook for foundational undergraduate courses in philosophy.
Fidel A. Arnecillo Jr. earned his Ph.D. at Claremont Graduate University. He teaches philosophy at California State University, San Bernardino, as well as California State Polytechnic University, Pomona and Azusa Pacific University.
