Rationalism: A Guide for the Perplexed (Electronic book text)

Rationalism is one of the most widely discussed topics in philosophy. Students regularly encounter the well known opposition between rationalism and empiricism - the clash between reason and experience as sources of knowledge and ideas - at an early stage in their studies. Yet the work of the great rationalists, Descartes, Spinoza and Leibniz, can prove particularly challenging. Rationalism: A Guide for the Perplexed offers a clear and thorough guide to this key concept in the history of philosophy. The author begins by asking 'what is rationalism?' and goes on to assess the distinction between rationalism and empiricism. The book introduces the key thinkers who articulate rationalist themes and traces the later history of rationalism, particularly in relation to ethics. It also explores the philosophic status of animals, an often ignored but central theme in rationalism. Specifically designed to meet the needs of students seeking a thorough understanding of the topic, this book is the ideal guide to a key concept in the history of philosophy.