A New History of Philosophy, Volume II: From Descartes to Rawls by Wallace Matson (University of California, Berkeley)
This two volume series introduces the fascinating story of philosophy in a lucid, readable style students enjoy reading. Incorporating the most current scholarship, Matson integrates philosophy into the scientific, political, religious, and social context of different periods. The two volumes can be used as a core text or as a supplement to primary source readings.