Books by Mel Thompson

Understand Ethics is a straightforward guide to the main ethical theories and key thinkers.

This is a straightforward introduction to the philosophy of religion examining the arguments for an against belief in a clear, structured way.

Teach Yourself Eastern Philosophy examines key ideas that developed within the ancient civilisations of India and China. It presents a range of philosophies that both inform discussion of personal, moral and social issues and address the fundamental questions about the nature of reality and the place and purpose of human life within it.From the erotic images of Tantra to the simple precision of Zen, and from the social order in traditional Confucian teaching to the rich variety of Hindu ideas and lifestyles, Teach Yourself Eastern Philosophy provides a feast of ideas of universal relevance.Teach Yourself Eastern Philosophy:- Looks at the ethical and social implications of Eastern philosophy.- Gives key terms in their original language with full explananations.- Points to parallels with Western thought, where appropriate.- Provides essential background information for appreciating the religions of India and the Far East.

Learn in a week, remember for a lifetime!In just one week, this accessible book will give you knowledge to last forever. End of chapter summaries and multiple choice questions are all designed to help you test your knowledge and gain confidence. So whether you are a student or you simply want to widen your knowledge, you will find this seven-day course a very memorable introduction.Sunday: Think about knowledge like a philosopherMonday: Consider what science is and how we gain knowledge of the natural worldTuesday: Explore how we speak and think, and how this relates to the philosophy of mind.Wednesday: Learn how philosophers view and engage with religionThursday: Engage with ethics - how we decide what is the right thing to doFriday: Discover how political philosophers have balanced the role of government with individual freedom.Saturday: Explore continental ideas such as existentialism and how the next generation of philosophers may build on them.

Understand Political Philosophy is an in-depth guide to the philosophers and political ideas who have shaped our society. Quickly and easily get to grips with the key thinkers and theories, from Aristotle to Wollstonecraft, from capitalism to utilitarianism. With exploration of contemporary issues and current debates, this book will put political philosophy in the context of the world we live in today.NOT GOT MUCH TIME?One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started.AUTHOR INSIGHTSLots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience.TEST YOURSELFTests in the book and online to keep track of your progress.EXTEND YOUR KNOWLEDGEExtra online articles at www.teachyourself.com to give you a richer understanding of psychology.FIVE THINGS TO REMEMBERQuick refreshers to help you remember the key facts.TRY THISInnovative exercises illustrate what you've learnt and how to use it.

Investigates the gap between what we are and what others perceive us to be to ascertain whether we are genuinely knowable entities. This book explores the central dilemma of how one can have a fixed idea of 'me' to shape and direct one's life when, in a world of constant change, events will rob us of that fixed idea at any moment.

Philosophy For Life is the definitive introduction to to the history of Western thought, covering all of the main thinkers and branches of philosophy, and providing a toolkit for using philosophy in your daily life.