<DIV>How can we be sure of a world outside of our own consciousness? Using this fundamental question as a launching point, Dr. Timothy Chappell takes his readers through a wide-ranging overview of the major themes of Western philosophical thought. Drawing on examples ranging from the great philosophical works of the past to modern pop-culture phenomena like <i>The Matrix</i>, Dr. Chappell provides a stimulating introduction to the issues that have consumed Western philosophers for millennia. Presenting complex arguments in accessible terms, this is the perfect guidebook for the first-year college student, or for anyone intrigued by the mysteries of human existence. <br></div>