Theory of Knowledge (Prentice-Hall Foundations of Philosophy Series) [Paperback]

Roderick Chisholm (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

This book addresses the contemporary developments in a critical fashion, reaffirming the validity of the epistemic point of view. The author draws the reader into the very forefront of current philosophical debate, giving greater insights into both intergalactic and externalistic theories of knowledge.

Product Details

• Paperback: 144 pages
• Publisher: Prentice Hall College Div; 3 Sub edition (January 1989)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0139141774
• ISBN-13: 978-0139141775
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.9 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,137,417 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Highly Recommended, March 19, 2006

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TiZ - See all my reviews

This review is from: Theory of Knowledge (Foundations of Philosophy) (Paperback)

Roderick Chisholm's "Theory of Knowledge" covers the nature of knowledge, evidence, reason, perception and truth, among other topics in epistemology. The book is therefore quite comprehensive, without sacrificing too much depth.
The book is very well organised and written with the clarity for which Chisholm was legendary. It is rigorous, but not boring. Chisholm illuminates his discussion with many interesting examples drawn from other areas of philosophy, showing the relevance of epistemology to these areas.
Chisholm is influenced by Thomas Reid in many respects. However, he does not consider the problem of scepticism as seriously as does Reid; in my opinion, a major lacuna in the book is the absence of an extensive discussion of the problem of scepticism. The book (or, at least, my edition of it) was also written some time ago, and is not up to date with some recent developments in epistemology. However, Amazon.com seems to be offering a later edition of the book, which has been updated.
Roderick Chisholm was among the greatest philosophers and teachers of his generation, and this little book introduced a generation to epistemology or the theory of knowledge. It remains an excellent introduction to epistemology and a rich source of knowledge. Some, however, have claimed that this book is difficult for those without some previous exposure to analytic philosophy.