Thinking with Concepts

by John Wilson

Overview

In his preface Mr Wilson writes 'I feel that a great many adults … would do better to spend less time in simply accepting the concepts of others uncritically, and more time in learning how to analyse concepts in general'. Mr Wilson starts by describing the techniques of conceptual analysis. He then gives examples of them in action by composing answers to specific questions and by criticism of quoted passages of argument. Chapter 3 sums up the importance of this kind of mental activity. Chapter 4 presents selections for the reader to analyse, followed by questions of university entrance/scholarship type. This is a book to be worked through, in a sense a text-book.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781107083387
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	04/01/1970
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	270 KB

Table of Contents

Preface; Part I. The Business of Analysis: 1. what is conceptual analysis?; 2. Difficulties and methods of analysis; 3. Additional notes; Part II. Examples of Analysis: 4. Criticism of passages; 5. Answering questions of concept; Part III. Philosophy and Analysis; Part IV. Practice in Analysis: 6. Passages for criticism; 7. Questions to answer.

Editorial Reviews

'In this book, Mr Wilson outlines a system of mental engineering to canalise the potentialities of the youthful mind. The result is a work of absorbing interest and a model of clear thought and clear writing.' London Head Teacher

'His exposition is fairly elementary … but it is always intelligent, and many readers would certainly be better for learning his lessons. This book could do good, and not only at the relatively humble level of preparation for General Papers.' Times Educational Supplement

From the Publisher