Choice 评论

In his preface, Robert Audi (Univ. of Notre Dame) describes philosophy as a "field in motion." The third edition of this authoritative volume (CH, Mar'00, 37-3647) captures the dynamic nature of the field by substantially expanding coverage. The scope now includes some 500 new entries in addition to increased coverage of some of the more rapidly growing fields. Entries on ethics, cognitive science, and the philosophy of mind, for example, are substantially longer and reflect contemporary developments. Of particular interest, this edition continues to expand coverage (initiated in the second edition) of philosophical thinkers who are still living and active. Historians of philosophy are also covered for the first time in this volume. New entries on Australasian and Austrian philosophy, along with a substantial expansion of coverage of African philosophy, evidence the care that Audi, assisted by Paul Audi (Univ. of Nebraska, Omaha), took to ensure that the dictionary remains comprehensive in its scope and inclusive of global perspectives. For all of this edition's expanded coverage, it maintains its characteristic concise, readable prose, suitable for both senior scholars and beginning students of philosophy and related disciplines. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All academic readers. --Andrew Wesolek, Clemson University