The Blackwell Companion to Philosophy edited by Bunnin and Tsui-James provides a collection of contemporary essays on a wide-range of philosophical subjects. I offer the following thoughts for potential readers.



Sometimes introductory texts take a chronological approach to issues presenting readers with selections from different time periods (Pojman's excellent Introduction to Philosophy is an example of this style). The Blackwell Companion takes a different, but also effective, tact of presenting the subjects from the perspective of modern commentators. Though both styles have their appeal, I am partial to the former - I think it gives a more well-rounded introduction to new students.



Although there is some discussion of ancient, medieval and continental philosophy, most of the essays fall within the realm of what could be called the western analytical tradition. All essays also have suggestions for further reading as well as excellent bibliographies. I think that many philosophy students will find these helpful.



On a more specific note I found the essays on the philosophy of religion and the philosophy of science to be particularly well done. Whereas, I did not find Searle's introductory piece helpful. He is an accomplished philosopher, however, I have a hard time getting past the ego - this may not be a distraction to others. I also do not find the essays on applied ethics or feminism and philosophy to be appropriate. With regard to the former, though I have personal interest in applied ethics I do not thing it is a good fit in an introductory text. While with reference to the later, I think feminism and philosophy is misguided - somewhat along the lines of left handers and philosophy.



Despite these minor reservations it is an outstanding reference. I highly recommend the Blackwell series as well as the Big Questions collections to interested readers.