Problems of Knowledge: A Critical Introduction to Epistemology - Softcover

Williams, Michael

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0192892568 ISBN 13: 9780192892560

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 2001

Synopsis

What is epistemology or "the theory of knowledge?" What is it really about? Why does it matter? What makes theorizing about knowledge "philosophical?" Why do some philosophers argue that epistemology--perhaps even philosophy itself--is dead?
In this succinct, exciting, and original introduction to epistemology, Michael Williams explains and criticizes philosophical theories of the nature, limits, methods, possibility, and value of knowing. A coherent and progressive text, Problems of Knowledge covers both traditional and contemporary approaches to the subject, including foundationalism, the coherence theory, and "naturalistic" theories. As an alternative to these perspectives, Williams defends his own distinctive contextualist approach. Problems of Knowledge provides clear and engaging explanations of the theory of knowledge and why it matters, offering an excellent foundation for students in introductory epistemology courses.

About this title

About the Author:

Michael Williams is the Charles and Emma Morrison Professor of Humanities, and Professor of Philosophy at Northwestern University. He has previously held positions at Yale and the University of Maryland.

Review:

A masterly introduction to epistemology and an original contribution, this book succeeds on both levels. Those who know Michael Williams's earlier work will not be surprised by the rich texture of his writing and by how well it conveys the history and geography of the land of epistemology,
while staking out a position of his own within it. Without piling on references, never woodenly didactic, Williams's manuscript still shows his mastery of the subject, in both its historical length and its contemporary breadth. Ernest Sosa, Brown University

Review in Italian appeared in Iride September 03.

About this edition

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 0192892568
• ISBN 13: 9780192892560
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 288