200,000+ Books, Games & Puzzles in-stock 🇳🇿 

Overnight NZ-wide delivery | 📍 Visit our Auckland bookstore • Open 7 days, 8:30am–5pm

Philosophy

An Illustrated History of Thought (Ponderables 100 Ideas That Changed History Who Did What When)
Series: Ponderables
3.83 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 100 ratings, 15 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
In Philosophy by Tom Jackson, the author takes readers on an insightful journey through the history and evolution of philosophical thought. The book covers essential concepts and ideas from influential philosophers, exploring their impact on how we perceive the world and understand human nature. It's a captivating introduction for those keen on discovering the fundamental questions and challenges in philosophy.
Read More
Format: Hardback
TEMPORARILY OUT OF STOCK Please add to wishlist to be notified when back in stock

Sorry, we're currently out of stock of Philosophy. Please add to your Wishlist and we'll send you an email as soon as it's back in stock.

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're curious about the fundamental questions of existence and seek to explore diverse philosophical perspectives. Perfect for those who love digesting complex ideas in a way that's accessible and engaging, it offers a captivating journey through the history of thought, highlighting influential philosophers and their contributions.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

Here is the essential guide to philosophy, an authoritative yet fun reference book and timeline on the compilation of human knowledge.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Both art and science attempt answers to the big questions—what is truth, how to be good, and where did we come from?—but philosophy is the interpreter we turn to verify it all. We need it to make sense of the simplest maths and the most esoteric of poetry, and it has even created a science of information itself.

We begin our journey at the boundary of myth and reason, and along the way, we visit the thoughts of the most high-flying of minds: Socrates, Descartes, Kant, and others. These thinkers could see that nothing—not ever-changing words, limitless numbers, or mystical visions—were beyond examination.

And we shall see that philosophy, far from being the work of dead geniuses, is today at the heart of our battle to make sense of the quantum Universe.

Philosophy by Tom Jackson explores these intricate connections and guides us through the significant contributions of philosophical thinking, ensuring it remains as relevant and indispensable now as it has always been.

Series: Ponderables

View all
  • Ponderables Computer Science
    Here is the updated essential guide to computers, an authoritative reference book and timeline about the most powerful tools ever devised. Computing has been the sharp end of cutting-edge technology for a generation and it now permeates all our lives. But to many, computer science remains something of a mystery. Our story begins long before the silicon chip, when the...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Elsewhere:
    $4999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Ponderables Mathematics
    Here is the updated essential guide to mathematics, an authoritative reference book and timeline that explores the work of history's greatest mathematicians. These include the teasing genius of Pierre de Fermat, who said he knew the answers but rarely gave them up, and the helpful guidance of Fibonacci, whose 13th-century compendium for bookkeepers proved to be a valuable tool for...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Elsewhere:
    $4999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Biology
    Here is the essential guide to Biology, an authoritative reference book and timeline that examines how we have uncovered the secrets of life—the most complex process in the Universe. From the workings of molecules to the way entire oceans or continents of lifeforms interact, biology seeks to understand how it is that something can be alive, how it fends off...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Ponderables Engineering
    Here is the updated essential guide to engineering, an authoritative reference book and timeline about how technology has given shape to our civilisation. Engineering predates humanity; Homo habilis was knapping hand axes from fist-sized flints more than a thousand centuries before the dawn of modern humans. Admittedly, the development of technology was slow back then, but we've made up for...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Elsewhere:
    $4999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Ponderables Physics
    Here is the updated essential guide to physics, an authoritative reference book and timeline that examines the foundations upon which all scientific knowledge rests. Without physics, everything else—from astronomy to zoology—would be meaningless conjecture. Our journey begins with the first attempts to understand reality, Mother Nature—or as the ancient Greeks called it, physis. Follow the journey through history as great...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Elsewhere:
    $4999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Ponderables Technology
    Here is the essential guide to the history of technology, an authoritative reference book and timeline that examines how tools have built our civilisation, changed our environment, and could even alter our species. The term technology is frequently associated with modernity and the possibilities of the future. However, we have been using technologies since before the dawn of history. Even...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Ponderables The Elements
    Here is the updated essential guide to the Periodic Table, an authoritative reference book and timeline with at-a-glance information for every element. The Periodic Table, set out by Dmitri Mendeleev in 1869, is the result of centuries of accumulated knowledge. It is a powerful yet elegant tool that opens a window onto the very stuff of nature—stars, rocks, life, and...
    Hardback
    $6500
    Available
    Ships in 2-3 weeks
  • Physics
    Here is the essential guide to physics, an authoritative reference book and timeline that examines the foundations upon which all scientific knowledge rests. Without physics, everything else - from astronomy to zoology - would be a meaningless conjecture. Our journey begins with the first attempts to understand reality, Mother Nature - or as the ancient Greeks called it, physics. Follow...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Psychology - Ponderables
    Here is the essential guide to psychology, an authoritative reference book and timeline that examines how we learned to understand ourselves. Psychology - Ponderables is a young science. While great thinkers have pondered the nature of thought itself for centuries, the idea of using scientific experiments to examine the way we think, make decisions, and behave was only arrived at...
    Hardback
    Sold Out
  • Philosophy
    Both art and science attempt answers to the big questions—what is truth, how to be good, and where did we come from?—but philosophy is the interpreter we turn to verify it all. We need it to make sense of the simplest maths and the most esoteric of poetry, and it has even created a science of information itself. We begin...
    Hardback
    Sold Out
  • The Brain
    The brain's cells are wired together with 100 trillion connections. That makes each and every human brain a contender as the most complex system in the universe, a system that endows us with an intellect that far outstrips that of any other creature. However, there is one difficult question remaining: Are we intelligent enough to understand our own brains? Follow...
    Hardback
    Sold Out
  • Ponderables - Mathematics
    Legend has it that the first magic square, where all lines and diagonals add up to the same figure, was revealed more than 2,000 years ago when a river turtle appeared to have ancient Chinese numerals inscribed on sections of its shell. Patterns are everywhere in nature, and counting, measuring, and calculating changes are as old as civilisation itself. Here...
    Hardback
    Sold Out

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

In Philosophy by Tom Jackson, the book is praised for its thoughtful presentation and engaging illustrations as it explores '100 Ideas That Changed the World', offering a lively chronological journey through philosophical concepts. The book provides descriptions of various philosophical schools and brief biographies of prominent philosophers, enhanced by a fold-out wall chart that contextualises philosophy within broader historical events. However, some inaccuracies are noted, and certain explanations may require pre-existing conceptual understanding, while alternatives by established philosophers are suggested for more in-depth exploration.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780985323073

Publisher: Shelter Harbor Press

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 01 October 2014

Country: United States

Imprint: Shelter Harbor Press

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 30.0mm

Width: 240.0mm

Height: 282.0mm

Weight: 1293g

Pages: 168

About the Author

Tom Jackson is a science writer based in the United Kingdom. Tom specializes in recasting science and technology into lively historical narratives. After almost 20 years of writing, Tom has uncovered a wealth of stories that help create new ways to enjoy learning about science. He studied at the University of Bristol and still lives in the city with his wife and three children.

Also by Tom Jackson

View all
  • The Magnificent Book of Reptiles and Amphibians
    This beautiful book will have you captivated! From a terrifying king cobra to a tiny red-eyed tree frog, a rare Galapagos tortoise to a bright Parson's chameleon, The Magnificent Book of Reptiles and Amphibians is the perfect introduction to these fascinating creatures. Each stunning, detailed illustration is accompanied by intriguing facts, amounting to a wonderful keepsake that you will revisit...
    Hardback
    $3000
    Available
    Ships in 1 week
  • The Magnificent Book of Dinosaurs
    Travel back in time to meet the most magnificent dinosaurs in close up. The Magnificent Book of Dinosaurs takes you back to prehistoric times to meet 36 incredible beasts. From the terrifying T. rex to the speedy Velociraptor, this book depicts some of the most incredible dinosaurs in stunning and accurate original illustrations. Intriguing facts accompany every illustration, so you...
    Hardback
    $3200
    Elsewhere:
    $3500
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • How Do We Stop Climate Change?
    A unique and beautiful approach to understanding climate change with practical actions to help protect the planet. Climate change is an important, yet complicated, subject. How Do We Stop Climate Change? makes it accessible for all ages, from the 8+ year-olds inspired by Greta Thunberg to parents and teachers. Beautiful illustrations from noted picture book illustrator Dragan Kordic combine with...
    Hardback
    $3500
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • The Magnificent Book of Prehistoric Beasts
    Journey back in time to see the world’s most magnificent prehistoric beasts close up. The Magnificent Book of Prehistoric Beasts takes you on a journey back in time to an ancient world, where peculiar beasts roamed the Earth and swam in the seas. Meet the mighty woolly mammoth with its huge tusks for finding food, a saber-toothed cat with teeth...
    Hardback
    $3600
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Ponderables Computer Science
    Here is the updated essential guide to computers, an authoritative reference book and timeline about the most powerful tools ever devised. Computing has been the sharp end of cutting-edge technology for a generation and it now permeates all our lives. But to many, computer science remains something of a mystery. Our story begins long before the silicon chip, when the...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Elsewhere:
    $4999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • The Magnificent Book of Dangerous Animals
    Learn about 36 dangerous animals in this beautifully illustrated reference book filled with fascinating facts. The Magnificent Book of Dangerous Animals takes you into the wilderness where you will encounter all sorts of wild and dangerous creatures. From predatory orcas powering the waves to green anacondas ready to deliver a deadly hug, The Magnificent Book of Dangerous Animals captures a...
    Hardback
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Magnificent Book of Ocean Creatures
    Dive into the world’s oceans, exploring sunlit coral reefs, wide open seas, and the murky depths to meet 36 magnificent ocean creatures. Take a journey through oceans and seas to discover 36 magnificent marine animals, from the immense blue whale to speedy flying fish. Encounter fierce predators like the great white shark and orca, as well as truly bizarre creatures...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • So That's How It Works! Robots and AI
    Join the scientists and inventors whose mission is to dive deep below the surface of hundreds of vehicles and structures - from the tiniest nanorobot to mega machines - and find out exactly how they work. Turn the pages of this epic book to journey through the world of robots and AI. In So That's How It Works! Robots and...
    Hardback
    $3000
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • The Magnificent Book of Horses
    This beautifully illustrated series will have you captivated. Stunning illustrations, intriguing facts, and a large format make an engaging reference to revisit time and again. From stocky Shetland ponies and gentle Welsh cobs to energetic Arabian horses and muscular destriers, dozens of horse breeds are depicted in beautiful full-colour illustrations. Accompanied by a selection of intriguing facts about each horse,...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Astronomy (Ponderables)
    Here is the essential guide to astronomy, an authoritative reference book and timeline that traces how, over many centuries, great minds have figured out where we and our planet fit in the great expanse of the Universe. Since time immemorial, people have looked out into the night sky and brought back knowledge on how the Universe works. Gradually, astronomers have...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Biology
    Here is the essential guide to Biology, an authoritative reference book and timeline that examines how we have uncovered the secrets of life—the most complex process in the Universe. From the workings of molecules to the way entire oceans or continents of lifeforms interact, biology seeks to understand how it is that something can be alive, how it fends off...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Ponderables Mathematics
    Here is the updated essential guide to mathematics, an authoritative reference book and timeline that explores the work of history's greatest mathematicians. These include the teasing genius of Pierre de Fermat, who said he knew the answers but rarely gave them up, and the helpful guidance of Fibonacci, whose 13th-century compendium for bookkeepers proved to be a valuable tool for...
    Hardback
    $3999
    Elsewhere:
    $4999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks

Browse lists from our team

More from Philosophy & Psychology

View all
  • Atomic Habits
    Atomic Habits by James Clear is a transformative guide that demonstrates how tiny, incremental changes in behaviour can fundamentally reshape your life. Rather than urging sweeping transformations, Clear advocates for the compound effect of hundreds of small decisions. Whether it’s performing two push-ups a day, waking up five minutes earlier, or making a brief, focused phone call, these minuscule adjustments,...
    Paperback
    $2500
    Elsewhere:
    $4000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Signed Copy
    New Release
    Your Time Is Now
    An inspiring guide to letting go of the past, turning inaction into action, and taking charge of your own destiny. Suzanne Paul is one of New Zealand's most cherished personalities, known for her unwavering positivity. Over the last twenty years in her work as a motivational speaker, she has taught people around the country how to overcome setbacks and take...
    Paperback
    $3199
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • 1984 Nineteen Eighty-Four
    In the drab and oppressive world of 1984 Nineteen Eighty-Four, George Orwell introduces us to Winston Smith, a man haunted by the omnipresent surveillance and control exercised by the Party and its enigmatic leader, Big Brother. Winston works diligently at the Ministry of Truth, where his job is to alter historical records to fit the ever-changing narrative dictated by the...
    Paperback
    $1000
    Elsewhere:
    $1299
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • How Lucky Am I
    The first full book featuring social media sensation Mr. Skelly, with over 5 million global followers, a skeleton who teaches us that life is a gift to be treasured, reminding us how lucky we all are to live in this present moment. For readers of The Book of Gifts and The Little Frog’s Guide to Self Care. In this poignant,...
    Hardback
    $4299
    Elsewhere:
    $5500
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Daily Stoic
    The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman offers an enriching journey through the ancient philosophy of Stoicism, distilled into a format meant for modern readers' daily use. This compelling book is structured as a day-by-day guide, bringing wisdom, insight, and guidance from esteemed Stoic philosophers like Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius directly to your life. Each day unveils...
    Paperback
    $2700
    Elsewhere:
    $3299
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Happiness Trap
    Free yourself from depression, anxiety, and insecurity, and instead, build a rich and meaningful life with the world's best-selling guide to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Over 1 million copies sold! The Happiness Trap by Dr. Russ Harris is an illuminating and transformative guide designed to help readers navigate the challenging landscape of modern life. As an expert in ACT,...
    Paperback
    $2800
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The DOSE Effect
    The DOSE Effect offers small habits to boost your brain chemistry. "This book will help you find more motivation, create deeper connections, energise your body, and destress your mind," says Jay Shetty, author of Think Like a Monk. Life can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Today’s fast-paced world leaves many of us struggling with extreme emotional highs...
    Paperback
    $2700
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    (2)
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Winner's Formula
    The Neuroscience of Peak Performance, Success, and Happiness Why do some people win all the time? Why do others languish? From Olympians to Formula 1 drivers, addicts to billionaires, cognitive neuroscientist Dr Kerry Spackman has spent decades working to help people understand how to succeed. In The Winner's Formula, Kerry explains what goes on in your brain when you are...
    Paperback
    $2800
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Courage to be Disliked
    The Courage to be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga presents an enlightening and thought-provoking dialogue between a philosopher and a young man disillusioned with life. In a series of conversations, the philosopher introduces the principles of Alfred Adler's psychology, advocating for personal empowerment and mental freedom. Through this engaging dialogue, the young man learns to confront the societal...
    Paperback
    $2200
    Elsewhere:
    $2999
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Lessons on Living
    Bestselling author Nigel Latta's simple psychological toolkit for life's ups and downs. Over thirty years working as a clinical psychologist, Nigel Latta assembled a personal toolkit based on three simple principles. These principles helped him to be more resilient, joyful, and attuned to what matters most. The same principles have helped him through some difficult times as well, such as...
    Paperback
    $3299
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    (3)
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Creative Act
    Many famed music producers are known for a particular sound that has its day and then ages out. Rick Rubin is known for something else: creating a space where artists of all different genres and traditions can home in on who they really are and what they really offer. He has made a practice of helping people transcend their self-imposed...
    Hardback
    $4400
    Elsewhere:
    $5500
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Aroha
    Aroha by Dr Hinemoa Elder is an enlightening exploration of timeless Maori wisdom, intricately woven into a contemporary context. This top-selling non-fiction title from New Zealand in 2021 introduces readers to 52 traditional Maori proverbs, known as whakataukī, each offering a profound lesson for every week of the year. Dr Elder, a respected Maori psychiatrist, delves into these powerful sayings...
    Hardback
    $2000
    Elsewhere:
    $3000
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 190,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.