In this comprehensive collection of philosophical writings are to be found not only the great thinkers of the West, but many of the important and less familiar philosophers of the Orient. The selections cover the whole span of recorded philosophy, from the 6th Century B. C. to the present day. Included of course are the thinkers of the Greek and Roman periods, as well as the outstanding Hebrew scholars, the Church fathers of the Christian era and the whole prodigious line of modern philosophers from the Renaissance to our days. Each entry begins with a biographical sketch, covering the significant events in the philosopher's life, listing his major works, and including a concise, careful statement of his place and importance in the history of philosophy. This is followed by one or more representative excerpts from the man's work. Depending on the importance of its author, each excerpt runs from a few paragraphs to several pages in length.