Philosophy can be both intriguing and perplexing, addressing fundamental issues of the human condition, such as free will, morality, and the limits of logic. The Oxford Companion to Philosophy serves as an authoritative one-volume reference, offering clear guidance on the ideas of notable philosophers from antiquity to the present, alongside major philosophical systems worldwide, including Confucianism and phenomenology. With over two thousand entries, it covers concepts like idealism, ethics, and existentialism. Esteemed contributors, including Isaiah Berlin and Sissela Bok, provide insights on key figures and doctrines, from Aristotle and Plato to contemporary thinkers like Noam Chomsky. The Companion also features entries on significant concepts such as personal identity and the mind-body problem, as well as contentious issues like abortion and capital punishment. Readers will find explanations of philosophical terms, puzzles, and curiosities, with suggestions for further reading accompanying most entries. Additionally, it includes a chronological chart of philosophical history and portraits of eighty eminent philosophers. The work also touches on lighter aspects of philosophy, making it both informative and enjoyable to browse, serving as an indispensable guide for anyone interested in abstract thought and the foundations of human understanding.
