Designed to be accessible to today's students, this anthology of readings in contemporary Western philosophy focuses on Nineteenth-century philosophers who represent a variety of different responses to the issue of the day—i.e., whether or not there was a knowable, nonhuman rational order upon which thinking persons could willfully choose to act. Striking a balance between major and minor figures, the anthology features the best available translations of texts—complete works or complete selections of works—which are both central to each philosopher's thought and are widely accepted as part of the “canon.” The selections are readable and accessible, while still being faithful to the original. Introductions to each philosopher, an abundance of drawings, diagrams, photographs, and a timeline keep students focused throughout.