Description:
This collection brings together key contemporary texts in metaphysics and features an interactive commentary which helps readers engage the texts critically and to use them to develop their own views.
- Each text is followed by a detailed commentary, setting it in context
- Includes questions designed to help readers think hard about what the author is saying and why, to think of objections, and to formulate his or her own views
- Aims to improve the reader's ability to engage critically with philosophical texts, and to use them as a springboard for philosophical thought and writing
- Introduces readers to the perennial problems of metaphysics and the ways that different analytic philosophers have approached them
Review Quotes: "A book that speaks directly to students. By combining accessible text selections with insightful commentary, clear graphic devices for navigating within each chapter, and thoughtful questions, this new collection provides an invaluable teaching tool for major areas of contemporary metaphysics."
Dale Jacquette, The Pennsylvania State University
"Reading Metaphysics is the perfect hybrid of an attentively edited anthology and a lucidly instructive textbook. Instead of overwhelming us with dozens of selections, the editors have expertly chosen a small number of contemporary readings, thus giving readers the time to probe deeply into the selected topics and, more importantly, the time to learn how to take apart and interact with a philosophical text. While the readings are well-selected, the true strength of this book lies in the editors' commentary. Students will leave this book ready, and eager, to take on more metaphysics and teachers will notice a marked improvement in their students' philosophical ability."
Andrew P. Mills, Otterbein College