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Twelve Theories of Human Nature Paperback – 25 October 2012
Over five previous editions, Ten Theories of Human Nature has been a remarkably popular introduction to some of the most influential developments in Western and Eastern thought. Now titled Twelve Theories of Human Nature, the sixth edition adds chapters on Islam (by Peter Wright) and Freud to those on Confucianism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Plato, Aristotle, the Bible, Kant, Marx, Sartre, and Darwinism. The authors juxtapose the ideas of these and other thinkers and traditions in a way that helps students understand how humanity has struggled to comprehend its nature. To encourage students to think critically for themselves and to underscore the similarities and differences between the many theories, the book examines each one on four points--the nature of the universe, the nature of humanity, the diagnosis of the ills of humanity, and the proposed cure for these problems. Ideal for introductory courses in human nature, philosophy, religious studies, and intellectual history, this unique volume will engage and motivate students and other readers to consider how we can understand and improve both ourselves and human society.
- ISBN-100199859035
- ISBN-13978-0199859030
- Edition6th
- PublisherOxford University Press USA
- Publication date25 October 2012
- LanguageEnglish
- Dimensions20.83 x 1.78 x 13.72 cm
- Print length320 pages
Product description
Review
"Twelve Theories of Human Nature is the exact model of what an introductory textbook should be: a student coming to the subject for the first time will be able to understand the contentions of different (and difficult) theories of human nature; at the same time, nothing here is dumbed down. The book is consistently clear, precise, deep, engaging, and accurate."--Brian R. Clack, University of San Diego "Excellent. I have been using this book since the first edition. The inclusion of the treatment of evolutionary theories of human nature is particularly valuable."--Val Dusek, University of New Hampshire "I have asked my students often whether they think the text is one they would like me to assign again next semester and they agree again and again. There really is no other better book."--Patricia Turrisi, University of North Carolina-Wilmington "I cannot think of another philosophy text written for the undergraduate on this topic that is as clear, unpretentious, and informative as this book."--Zachary Ernst, University of Missouri-Columbia
Review
"Twelve Theories of Human Nature is the exact model of what an introductory textbook should be: a student coming to the subject for the first time will be able to understand the contentions of different (and difficult) theories of human nature; at the same time, nothing here is dumbed down. The book is consistently clear, precise, deep, engaging, and accurate."--Brian R. Clack, University of San Diego "Excellent. I have been using this book since the first edition. The inclusion of the treatment of evolutionary theories of human nature is particularly valuable."--Val Dusek, University of New Hampshire "I have asked my students often whether they think the text is one they would like me to assign again next semester and they agree again and again. There really is no other better book."--Patricia Turrisi, University of North Carolina-Wilmington "I cannot think of another philosophy text written for the undergraduate on this topic that is as clear, unpretentious, and informative as this book."--Zachary Ernst, University of Missouri-Columbia
From the Publisher
Leslie Stevenson is Honorary Reader in Philosophy, University of St. Andrews, Scotland. David L. Haberman is Professor of Religious Studies, Indiana University at Bloomington. Peter Matthews Wright is Assistant Professor of Religion at Colorado College.
About the Author
Leslie Stevenson is Honorary Reader in Philosophy, University of St. Andrews, Scotland. David L. Haberman is Professor of Religious Studies, Indiana University at Bloomington. Peter Matthews Wright is Assistant Professor of Religion at Colorado College.
Product details
- Publisher : Oxford University Press USA; 6th edition (25 October 2012)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 320 pages
- ISBN-10 : 0199859035
- ISBN-13 : 978-0199859030
- Dimensions : 20.83 x 1.78 x 13.72 cm
- Customer Reviews:
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4.4 out of 5 stars
4.4 out of 5
43 global ratings
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars
very good book to get a basic grasp of most ideologies
Reviewed in Canada on 23 July 2016Verified Purchase
very good book to get a basic grasp of most ideologies. Combos well with non violent communication lessons to create balanced and understanding and functional human beings.

Alexis Hart
4.0 out of 5 stars
Good Book- Definitely Used
Reviewed in the United States on 17 January 2023Verified Purchase
I bought a used version of the book to save a bit of money considering this was a required book for a class. I would have definitely purchased a new book if it was a bit more affordable. As stated when buying a Used-Good condition book I was aware there would be damage. I was not expecting what looks like coffee (at least I hope coffee) to be on the pages. Many highlights, but most are helpful! Overall, good book. What I have read so far is very interesting and keeps you engaged.