Philosophy: The Basics is an introduction to philosophy for anyone coming to the subject for the first time, particularly those studying it at school, college or university. It takes a topic based approach, each chapter considering an area of philosophy and outlines a number of key philosophical issues associated with the area. The chapters end with realistic suggestions for further reading. The reader is encouraged to think philosophically. The book introduces important philosophical questions and the various responses that have been made to them. Though major philosophical figures are mentioned, the emphasis throughout is on the arguments for and against every idea discussed. In this way readers can follow the course and development of a philosophical position and critically assess that position for themselves. The book begins by asking the questions What is Philosophy?' and Why Study Philosophy?'. At the end of this delightfully written and appealingly short book, by way of the seven chapters that intervene (God, Right and Wrong, Equality and Freedom, The External World, Science, Mind and Art), the reader will have come to his or her own answers. The second edition contains a brand new chapter on political philosophy. In addition, the main text and suggestions for further reading have been updated.