Classic Philosophic Questions is a longstanding and highly respected anthology of basic readings in philosophy, taken from ancient, modern, and contemporary sources. Issues are treated in a fundamentally open manner with arguments pro and con for the various positions covered. All selections are taken from primary sources, with introductions and study guides to facilitate reading for the beginning student. A unique feature of this book is the list of "think abouts" at the end of most of the readings. These suggest issues raised in the readings that can promote new ways of thinking about themes and concepts.

This text offers a comprehensive, first-hand experience of all the major branches of Philosophy. It covers all the fundamentals in philosophy, as opposed to volumes dealing with specialized topics. It draws from the ancient as well as modern and contemporary sources, rather than focusing on one particular historical period. Each reading contains a biographical sketch of the author, and a group of further readings for the student wishing to pursue the issue in greater depth.