Freedom

Reese opens with a discussion of personal freedom and control, and then examines the definitions of freedom in light of decision-making, want and obligation, and internal (personal) factors. A discussion of definitions leads to a single, concluding, workable definition and the placement of personal freedom within that definition. Included are valuable selections from Aquinas, Aristotle, Brand Blanshard, Descartes, Paul Edwards, Hegel, Hobbes, Hume, James, Locke, Nietzsche, Sartre, Skinner, Voltaire, and others."Freedom" is the first in a series of eight brief volumes devoted to the major philosophical problems. This new series will eventually include separate volumes on values, self, truth, beauty, right and wrong, social philosophy, and God and immortality. These volumes are appropriate for introduction to philosophy courses, particularly those with problems-based formats. Each study guide opens with an introduction, questions for discussion, and an outline of the topic, followed by classic readings.