
THE PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
By Bertrand Russell
PREFACE
CHAPTER I. APPEARANCE AND REALITY
CHAPTER II. THE EXISTENCE OF MATTER
CHAPTER III. THE NATURE OF MATTER
CHAPTER IV. IDEALISM
CHAPTER V. KNOWLEDGE BY ACQUAINTANCE AND KNOWLEDGE BY DESCRIPTION
CHAPTER VI. ON INDUCTION
CHAPTER VII. ON OUR KNOWLEDGE OF GENERAL PRINCIPLES
In this concise guide the author invites listeners to confront the most basic puzzles of philosophy: what can we truly know, and how can we be certain of it? Using familiar scenes—a chair, a table, the sun shining outside—he shows how everyday assumptions hide subtle contradictions that demand careful thought. The approach is clear and critical, steering clear of dogmatic assertions while encouraging an honest examination of our beliefs.
The first chapter draws a sharp line between appearance and reality, illustrating the point with the simple example of a wooden table whose colour seems to shift with light and perspective. By exploring how sense‑data can deceive us, the book opens a broader discussion of epistemology, questioning the reliability of our senses and the foundations of scientific knowledge. Listeners will find a thought‑provoking entry point into philosophy that balances rigorous analysis with accessible language.
Language
en
Duration
~4 hours (244K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Gordon Keener, and David Widger
Release date
Jun 1, 2004
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1872–1970
A brilliant philosopher who also wrote with unusual clarity for general readers, he brought big questions about truth, freedom, happiness, and war into everyday conversation. His work still feels lively because it mixes sharp logic with deep moral concern.
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by Bertrand Russell

by Bertrand Russell

by Bertrand Russell

by Bertrand Russell

by Bertrand Russell

by Bertrand Russell

by Bertrand Russell

by Bertrand Russell