Thirteen Theories of Human Nature

Seventh Edition

Leslie Stevenson, David L. Haberman, Peter Matthews Wright, Charlotte Witt

Thirteen Theories of Human Nature
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Thirteen Theories of Human Nature

Seventh Edition

Leslie Stevenson, David L. Haberman, Peter Matthews Wright, Charlotte Witt

ISBN:

9780190604721

Binding:

Paperback

Published:

2 Jan 2018

Availability:

8

Series:

$118.95 AUD

$131.99 NZD

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Description

Over six previous editions, Twelve Theories of Human Nature has been a remarkably popular introduction to some of the most influential developments in Western and Eastern thought. Now titled Thirteen Theories of Human Nature, the seventh edition adds a chapter on feminist theory to those on Confucianism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Plato, Aristotle, the Bible, Islam, Kant, Marx, Freud, Sartre, and Darwinism. The authors juxtapose the ideas of these and other thinkers and traditions in a way that helps students understand how humanity has struggled to comprehend its nature.

To encourage students to think critically for themselves and to underscore the similarities and differences between the many theories, the book examines each one on four points--the nature of the universe, the nature of humanity, the diagnosis of the ills of humanity, and the proposed cure for these problems.

Ideal for introductory courses in human nature, introduction to philosophy, and intellectual history, this unique volume will engage and motivate students and other readers to consider how we can understand and improve both ourselves and human society.

Contents

Preface to the Seventh Edition:
Introduction: Rival Theories and Critical Assessments
1. Confucianism: The Way of the Sages
2. Upanishadic Hinduism: Quest for Ultimate Knowledge
3. Buddhism: In the Footsteps of the Buddha
4. Plato: The Rule of Reason
5. Aristotle: The Ideal of Human Fulfillment
6. The Bible: Humanity in Relation to God
7. Islam: The Khalifa Ideal
Historical Interlude
8. Kant: Reasons and Causes, Morality and Religion
9. Marx: The Economic Basis of Human Societies
10. Freud: The Unconscious Basis of Mind
11. Sartre: Radical Freedom
12. Darwinian Theories of Human Nature
13. Human Nature and Feminist Theory
Glossary:
Index:

Authors

Leslie Stevenson , Honorary Reader in Philosophy, University of St. Andrews, Scotland

David L. Haberman , Professor of Religious Studies, Indiana University at Bloomington

Peter Matthews Wright , Associate Professor and Chair of Religion, Colorado College

Charlotte Witt , Professor of Philosophy and Humanities, University of New Hampshire

Leslie Stevenson is Honorary Reader in Philosophy at the University of St. Andrews, Scotland. David L. Haberman is Professor of Religious Studies at Indiana University at Bloomington. Peter Matthews Wright is Associate Professor and Chair of Religion at Colorado College. Charlotte Witt is Professor of Philosophy and Humanities at the University of New Hampshire.

Reviews

"I consider Thirteen Theories of Human Nature to be the best text available for undergraduate classes in human nature, views of humankind, or influential worldviews."--Jeff Jordan, University of Delaware

"Thirteen Theories of Human Nature is an excellent investigation into the history of the evolution of the concept of human nature, tracking the momentous philosophical and religious transformations that have shaped the debate."--Ben Miller, Florida State University