Passion of the Western Mind

Rating:
Summary: An engaging survey of Western thought
Review: This engaging summary propels readers through the epic story of how Western thought has evolved through the centuries. If you are new to philosophy, you will find that this book gives a lucid overview of subjects ranging from the early Greeks through the evolution of Christian thought, and proceeding onward through the Renaissance and the Scientific Revolution to current-day Postmodernism. This book gives many insights on the context underlying current-day views and assumptions about man's place in the universe. If you seek answers to existential questions or religious uncertainties, you may find the Epilogue wanting, but the book as a whole will intrigue you.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent intellectual history of west
Review: This is a great review of the major themes of Western Thought. Most major thinkers (e.g. Plato, Descartes, Aquinas)are discussed and placed into their historical, philosophical and social contexts. At times the book seemed to ramble on and was a bit disorganized, but overall was an excellent text.