A History of Western Philosophy

March 1, 2014

Russell was a British philosopher whose greatest contributions to the discipline are in the areas of logic and mathematics, though he also wrote works of a more popular nature. This title counts as one of his popular works and is essentially a story of the development of philosophical ideas set against the background of political and social influences from the pre-Socratics up to the early 20th century. Listeners will learn as much about the history of European religious thought and church politics as about the arguments of famous philosophers. The author sprinkles his historical analysis and review with his own insights and critical opinions. Though some might disapprove of Russell's uneven treatment of philosophers, he has a knack for presenting complicated philosophical arguments clearly and logically. This erudite and lengthy treatise is read with admirable skill by Jonathan Keeble, who modulates his tone when voicing excerpts from the various written works of the philosophers. VERDICT A worthy choice for libraries looking for a one-volume history of Western philosophy.--Denis Frias, Brampton Lib., Ont

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