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Booklist for Philosophy optional
Here is a comprehensive booklist for Philosophy optional in UPSC CSE. The books listed cover both Paper I (Indian Philosophy and Western Philosophy) and Paper II (Philosophy of Religion and Socio-Political Philosophy).
Introduction to Indian Philosophy – Dutta & Chatterjee
A basic, concise introduction to all the major Indian philosophical schools.
A Critical Survey of Indian Philosophy – C. D. Sharma
Provides a detailed analysis of Indian philosophies, both orthodox and heterodox.
Indian Philosophy (2 Volumes) – M. Hiriyanna
Focuses on the core Indian schools with a philosophical analysis.
Indian Philosophy – P. T. Raju
A deeper dive into the evolution of philosophical thought in India.
The Philosophy of the Upanishads – Paul Deussen
A focused study on the metaphysical and spiritual teachings of the Upanishads.
History of Western Philosophy – Bertrand Russell
A comprehensive and accessible account of Western philosophy, from the Pre-Socratics to modern philosophers.
Critical History of Western Philosophy – Y. Masih
This book offers a systematic account of Western philosophical thought and is crucial for understanding different thinkers and their contributions.
Contemporary Philosophy – D. M. Dutta
Focuses on 20th-century Western philosophers, offering insights into modern philosophical trends.
Philosophical Analysis – A. J. Ayer
A key text for understanding logical positivism, an essential school in Western thought.
Fundamentals of Philosophy – H. Gene Blocker & David Stewart
Provides an excellent overview of both Western and Eastern philosophical traditions, including modern developments.
The Philosophy of Wittgenstein – Norman Malcolm
This is a specialized book that provides insight into Wittgenstein’s thought, important for understanding language philosophy.
The Voyage of Discovery – William F. Lawhead
A student-friendly introduction to the history of Western philosophy.
Philosophy of Religion – John Hick
A comprehensive text that explores the rational analysis of religious beliefs, including arguments for the existence of God and theories of religion.
Philosophy of Religion – Y. Masih
This is another standard book offering insights into the rational study of religious thought.
Introduction to Religious Philosophy – Y. Masih
An introductory text for understanding religious concepts from a philosophical perspective.
The Philosophy of Religion – B. K. Matilal
Discusses key religious issues such as the concept of God, religious experience, and the relation between religion and morality.
Political Theory: An Introduction – O.P. Gauba
A concise book that provides an introduction to major political philosophies and thinkers, which is crucial for Paper II.
Gandhism – C. N. Puri
Covers Gandhian thought, especially on issues like truth, non-violence, and social justice, which are important for UPSC.
Sociology and Politics in India – A. R. Desai
A detailed book on how philosophical ideas shape political and social structures in India.
Social and Political Philosophy: A Contemporary Introduction – Jonathan Wolff
This book introduces key thinkers in social and political philosophy and how their ideas apply in the modern world.
The Concept of Justice – Michael J. Sandel
A modern exploration of justice that includes philosophical arguments from major theorists like Rawls and others.
Theories of Social Justice – S. P. Seth
This book helps understand the various theories surrounding justice, equality, and fairness in society.
The State and Political Theory – C. B. Macpherson
Provides insight into political theory, especially focusing on the state’s role in society, a topic often featured in Paper II.
This booklist covers all the essential books needed for both conceptual clarity and comprehensive coverage of the Philosophy syllabus for UPSC CSE. By focusing on core texts and practicing regularly, you will build a strong foundation and develop an analytical approach for the exam.
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