what are some good intro to philosophy books?

Question

im really interested on good philosophy books or good starter books that would help open up to more books or ideas or just any good philosophical books

Answer 1

Philosophy is a pretty big subject, so you should decide how you want to approach it. Historically, methodologically, by area of interest ( political philosophy, metaphysics, ethics, epistemology, etc.) If you want an historical overview that isn't too in depth to start, try Durant's The story of philosphy. If you want a specific area of philosophy or a different overview, go to a nearby university and go to the store where the sell the text books. Pick up whatever one of the into classes is using. If you want an overview that can relate to something you are familiar with, check out the philosophy section of a good book store. There are books specifically to make philosophy accessible using pop culture - The philosophy of the Simpsons ( mostly ethics and religious philosophy), The Philosophy of Star Trek ( mostly metaphysics and ethics, but cool stuff like the philosophy of time travel and so on), The philosophy of the Matrix ( the best in my opinion as it touches on religious, metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics). These books, despite having examples rooted in pop culture mostly serious philosophical essays, not pop pablum. Another I suggest as a good intro because of its subject matter is The Examine Life by Nozick. Nozick looks what most people take as common issues of everyday life, but rigorously examines them as only a philosopher of his caliber can.



I hope this helps.

Answer 2

Plato's "Apology" is a good place to start.

Answer 3

Plates the Republic is very good.