An Introduction to Philosophy

An academic work written in the early 20th century. This publication serves as a comprehensive guide to the discipline of philosophy, exploring its definitions, historical developments, and key problems that arise from philosophical inquiry. The author aims to clarify the nature of philosophical thought and its distinctions from common thought and scientific reasoning, making it accessible to students and general readers alike. The opening of the work presents a preface that outlines the scope and intentions of the book. Fullerton highlights the lack of a standard path in philosophy and the varied interpretations of its meaning across different eras and cultures. He details the book's goals, which include explaining the nature of reflective thought, discussing critical philosophical doctrines, and underlining the importance of philosophy in understanding our experiences and the external world. The beginning also sets the stage for an exploration of fundamental philosophical questions, such as the existence of the external world and the relationship between knowledge and experience, signaling a reflective journey through the complexities of philosophical thought.