The Meaning of Life - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 019512703X ISBN 13: 9780195127034

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1999

Synopsis

Many writers in various fields--philosophy, religion, literature, and psychology--believe that the question of the meaning of life is one of the most significant problems that an individual faces. In The Meaning of Life, Second Edition, E.D. Klemke collects some of the best writings on this topic, primarily works by philosophers but also selections from literary figures and religious thinkers. The twenty-seven cogent, readable essays are organized around three different perspectives on the meaning of life. In Part I, the readings assert and defend the theistic view that without the existence of God--or faith in God--life has no significance or purpose. In Part II the selections deny this thesis, defending instead the humanistic alternative--that life has or can have meaning and worth without any theistic beliefs or commitment. In the final group of readings, contributors ask if the question of the meaning of life is in itself legitimate and significant. The volume also includes an introduction by the editor and a selected bibliography. This new edition adds essays by A. J. Ayer, Hazel Barnes, William Lane Craig, Owen Flanagan, Antony Flew, Thomas Nagel, Kai Nielsen, Philip L. Quinn, Arthur Schopenhauer, and Walter T. Stace.
The only anthology of its kind, The Meaning of Life, Second Edition, is ideal for courses in introduction to philosophy and human nature. It also provides an accessible and stimulating introduction to the subject for general readers.

About this title

About the Author:

E. D. Klemke is at Iowa State University.

Review:

"An excellent introduction to questions of ultimate concern. Valuable to students of existentialism and analytic philosophy alike. This book traverses all boundaries in its carefully chosen readings."--S.N. Frantantaro, Providence College

"Fills the gap between the student's introduction to primary source material and secondary sources. Wonderfully crafted for the undergraduate who questions his/her own existence as well as the young theologian."--M.D. Tschaape, Indiana Institute of Technology

"A good collection of readings that deal with this significant philosophical issue. It is nice to have selections from such twentieth-century philosophers as Bertrand Russell and Richard Taylor."--Stephen Joseph, Framingham State College

"The best text available on the subject."--Ruth Sample, University of New Hampshire

About this edition

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 1999
• ISBN 10: 019512703X
• ISBN 13: 9780195127034
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 304
• Editor: Klemke E. D.