What is the purpose of life? What does it mean to thrive as a human being? Why does evil exist? These are three of the many challenging questions discussed in this richly illustrated book. Join Professor Gregory Bassham as he explores 250 milestones of philosophy, from 1500 BC to 2011.

The "Book of Philosophy" presents a vivid panorama of theories, facts, and groundbreaking works from the rich history of philosophy – an original and comprehensive encyclopedia, written in clear and accessible language. It is a valid overview as well as a collection of remarkable narratives and ideas.

Bassham delves into antiquity, examining, for instance, the Indian Vedas and the birth of Western philosophy, when thinkers began to rely on logic and observation to provide answers to our deepest existential questions. His journey through the history of philosophy concludes with the most recent developments, such as philosophical zombies and the "threefold theory" of ethics.

“Although philosophers often tackle issues that may seem extremely technical and abstract, at its core, philosophy continues to address the big questions of life that transcend the realm of the natural and social sciences: Is there meaning to life? Is there God? Is there life after death? Can I know true reality? How should I live? What should my goals be and what are my values? Philosophy remains an incredibly vibrant and vital activity when it closely engages with these significant existential questions.

The concise texts, accompanied by stunning color photographs, are organized chronologically, while the section titled “Notes and Further Reading” provides additional resources for in-depth study.

Gregory Bassham is a professor of philosophy at King's College in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, where he specializes in the philosophy of law, critical thinking, and the relationships between philosophy and mass culture. He has co-edited several philosophy books and is the lead author of the book Critical Thinking: A Student's Introduction. His articles and essays have been published in numerous books and journals.