This is a book that will have as much value the first time read as every subsequent time. Deceptively concise because at close to 130 pages it manages to confront a vast number of philosophical positions, and unlike many other philosophical introductions forces the reader to actually understand the philosophical argumentation, as opposed to simply learning it. The strength of this work as an introduction isn't so much as an overview of epistemological theories but in the actual discipline of rigorous analytic thinking.

I highly enjoyed this work and it is perfect for any person with a serious interest in philosophy. A degree of familiarity with philosophical writing, or a philosophical dictionary may be needed to ensure a smooth and rewarding read, as Russell really is one of the most prolific, erudite and concise writers of modern times.


Not very clear.   September 21, 2003
 7 out of 43 found this review helpful

I am a college student who is currently taking an introductory course in philosophy. Russell's book was the first readings assigned to us. The book is not very clear, although it is thought provoking. Not a good introductory to philosophy, jumping right into and trying to analyze Russell's concepts is very difficult.


Read the first part last.   April 3, 2003
 15 out of 17 found this review helpful

Russell, like Richard Dawkins, is such a lucid and persuasive writer that you have to make an effort to think carefully about whether what he is saying is right. John Skorupski's short introduction raises some of the objections to Russell's views (and Russell also points out a few problems in the appendix), but you should read the rest of the book before the introduction. Basically this is a tour through some problems in epistemology - Russell admits the book is only about subjects he feels able to be constructive about. Thought-provoking even if you don't agree with Russell's arguments - it's not a book you can read quickly if you're going to take it in properly, but you don't need any expert background either.


An excellent tater of philosophy   April 21, 2002
 22 out of 23 found this review helpful

I'm currently taking my final year in A level philosophy and I'd like to recommend this as a taster of philosophy that is a slightly more challenging read than the average textbook or 'teach yourself guide'. The language is clear and concise but the concepts are challenging and Russell really does engage the reader and gets you thinking about the problems he addresses, inspiring you to read more! A fairly short book, well worth reading whether you have ever come across philosophy before or not as it assumes no previous knowledge. An excellent read!


A must-read for all philosophers   May 12, 2001
 33 out of 35 found this review helpful

If you haven't read this yet, read it! The definite article in the title may be misleading; of course Russell does not tackle ALL the problems of philosophy - indeed who is to say what they all are? The book is mostly confined to problems of epistemology - i.e., what we can know. Having said this, it provides an excellent introduction to philosophy generally. There is nothing quite like Russell's crystal-clear prose style, which immediately gives a sense of the best philosophical writing. No doubt reading this will give you the urge to explore more philosophy; it really deserves its reputation as the best introduction to the subject from an anglophone point of view. (For "continental" philosophy, try Sartre's "Existentialism and Humanism".)