An innovative and accessible guide to more than 2,000 years of thought What existed before the Universe was created? Where does self-worth come from? Do the ends always justify the means? The Philosophy Book answers the most profound questions we all have. It is your visual guide to the fundamental nature of existence, society, and how we think. Discover what it means to be free, whether science can predict the future, or how language shapes our thoughts. Learn about the world´s greatest philosophers, from Plato and Confucius to modern thinkers such as Chomsky and Derrida, and follow charts and timelines that graphically show the progression of ideas and logic. Written in plain English, with pithy explanations of branches of philosophy such as metaphysics and ethics, it untangles complicated theories and makes sense of abstract concepts. It is an ideal reference whether you´re a student or a general reader, with simple explanations of big ideas, including the four noble truths, the soul, class struggle, moral purpose, and good and evil. If you´re curious about the deeper questions in life, The Philosophy Book is both an invaluable reference and illuminating read.