Students of the human sciences – economics, sociology, politics, anthropology, psychology – frequently encounter the names and distinctive theories of philosophers. It is none the less difficult to judge the contribution of such philosophers without a training in philosophy. First published in 1986, Philosophy and the Human Sciences is designed to bridge that gap in understanding by introducing the philosophers of most importance for the human sciences, from the viewpoint of the non-specialist or the specialist in another discipline.

This book offers a straightforward exposition of the contribution of a number of major philosophers and schools of philosophy to the social and behavioural sciences. Where appropriate, the exposition is illustrated by examples drawn from the human sciences; for example, Wittgenstein’s thought is introduced through a discussion of his treatment of Sir James Frazer’s anthropology.

The authors have considerable experience of writing for students, and the book should be widely welcomed.