This classic thematic anthology has long been hailed for its exceptionally rich collection of essays, memoirs, stories, poems, and plays, and for its ground-breaking inclusion of classic and contemporary images.

Renowned for the quality of its selections, The Conscious Reader presents over 150 readings representing a range of genres, a wide array of culturally diverse authors and fascinating topics, and a broad range of academic disciplines, including art, cultural studies, education, psychology, philosophy, politics, science, technology, and environmental studies. The works range from the classical—Plato's Crito—to the contemporary—Tony Kushner, Adam Gopnick, and Edwige Danticat.  Brief, flexible apparatus includes an introduction to each theme and helpful headnotes, discussion questions, and writing assignments for each selection.  Perhaps the most distinguishing feature of The Conscious Reader is its inclusion of a cutting-edge selection of fine art and photographs, designed to provoke discussion and analysis.