Charles Taylor
"Charles Taylor is one of the most influential and prolific philosophers in the English-speaking world. The breadth of his writings is unique, ranging from reflections on artificial intelligence to analyses of contemporary multicultural societies and the role of religion. In this thought-provoking introduction to Taylor's work, Ruth Abbey outlines his ideas in a coherent and accessible way without reducing their richness and depth. His contribution to many of the enduring debates within Western philosophy is examined and the arguments of his critics assessed. Taylor's reflections on the topics of moral theory, selfhood, political theory and epistemology form the core chapters within the book. Retaining the thematic approach of the first edition, this second edition has been revised, rewritten, and restructured, with a new chapter taking account of Taylor's contribution to religion and in particular his major book A Secular Age (2007). It also addresses his other works published in the last twenty years such as Secularism and Freedom of Conscience (2011). An ideal companion to Taylor's ideas and arguments, Charles Taylor is essential reading for students of philosophy, religion and political theory, and will be welcomed by the non-specialist looking for an authoritative guide to Taylor's large and challenging body of work"--