Philosophy for AS and A2

Philosophy for AS and A2 Edited by: Elizabeth Burns, Stephen Law 'Philosophy is becoming ever more popular as both an AS and A2 level subject. This comprehensive survey of major philosophical themes in the syllabus fulfils a real need, and will be an invaluable tool for study.' - Professor Roger Trigg, Founding Chair of the British Philosophical Association About this book Contents About the Authors Text samples More Information and Buy Online

About this book
Philosophy is becoming ever more popular as both an AS and A2 level subject. This comprehensive survey of major philosophical themes in the syllabus fulfils a real need, and will be an invaluable tool for study.'
Professor Roger Trigg, Founding Chair of the British Philosophical Association

Philosophy for AS and A2 is the definitive textbook for students of Advanced Subsidiary or Advanced Level courses, structured directly around the specification of the AQA - the only exam board to offer these courses. Following a lively foreword by Nigel Warburton, author of Philosophy: The Basics, a team of experienced teachers devote a chapter each to the six themes covered by the syllabus:
AS

• Theory of Knowledge
Moral Philosophy
• Philosophy of Religion

A2

• Philosophy of Mind
• Political Philosophy
• Philosophy of Science

Each of the six themed chapters includes:

• A list of key concepts, to introduce students to the topic
• Bite-size sections corresponding to the syllabus topics
• Actual exam questions from previous years
• Suggested discussion questions to promote debate
• Text-boxes with helpful summaries, case-studies and examples
• An annotated further-reading list directing students towards the best articles, books and websites
• A comprehensive glossary, providing a handy reference point

There is a final chapter on essay writing and exam preparation, designed to help students get to grips with the examination board requirements.

Philosophy for AS and A2 is written by a team of expert teachers based at Heythrop College - part of the University of London - which specialises in teaching philosophy and theology.

Contents

Preface by Nigel Warburton
Introduction (Michael Lacewing) Why Study Philosophy? An Outline Of Philosophy At AS And A2 How To Use This Book
Chapter 1: Theory Of Knowledge (Unit 1) (Janice Thomas) Introduction Empiricism And Rationalism Knowledge And Justification Knowledge And Scepticism Knowledge And The External World Concluding Remarks References Further Reading Glossary
Chapter 2: Moral Philosophy (Unit 2) (Michael Lacewing) Introduction Normative Ethics Practical Ethics Meta-Ethics: Cognitivism Meta-Ethics: Noncognitivism References Further Reading Glossary
Chapter 3: Philosophy Of Religion (Unit 2) (Elizabeth Burns) Introduction The Meaning And Justification Of Religious Concepts Arguments For The Existence Of God Faith, Reason And Belief The Implications Of God's Existence References Further Reading Glossary
Chapter 4: Philosophy Of Mind (Unit 4) (Janice Thomas) Introduction Approaches To Mentality And The Nature Of Mind The Mind And Body Problem Knowledge Of Self And Self-Consciousness Knowledge Of Others Persons Conclusion References Further Reading Glossary
Chapter 5: Political Philosophy (Unit 4) (Patrick Riordan) Introduction Political Ideologies Freedom Law Authority The State References Further Reading Glossary
Chapter 6: Philosophy Of Science (Unit 4) (Nicholas Wilson) Introduction Scientific Method The Nature Of Scientific Development Scientific Knowledge And The Aims Of Science The Objectivity Of Science Natural And Social Science References Further Reading Glossary
Chapter 7: Essay Writing And Exam Preparation (Elizabeth Burns & Michael Lacewing)
Index

About the Authors

Stephen Law is the author of The Philosophy Files (Orion 2000), The Outer Limits (Orion 2003) and The Philosophy Gym (Headline 2003). Both he and Elizabeth Burns are Lecturers in Philosophy at Heythrop College, London.

Text samples

Section 5 - POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY (UNIT 4) - Patrick Riordan