The Philosopher's Dictionary. 3rd ed.

Stephen Field is an information services librarian in the Queen
Elizabeth II Library, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

The author’s stated aim in this basic introduction to the language of
philosophy is “to give definitions that can be understood by people
who don’t already know what the defined term means.” The entry for
deterrence provides an excellent example of Martin’s personal and
informal approach to complex philosophical theories and concepts:
“Imagine that you are president of the US, and your enemies have just
bombed Pittsburgh. Should you go ahead with the massive nuclear
retaliation you threatened, and destroy a city of theirs? This would be
useless. But if this doesn’t make sense now, no wonder they didn’t
take your threat seriously earlier.”

There is a decided emphasis on philosophy in the Western tradition in
Martin’s dictionary. Well-known Western philosophers such as
Aristotle, Descartes, and Berkeley are given entries. English
terminology is favored, but non-English terms are used where necessary,
and these are highlighted in italics when they are the headwords in an
entry. Appropriate cross-referencing exists between terms, and Martin
provides guidance on the pronunciation of difficult words.

While more substantial works may engage the experienced philosophy
scholar, The Philosopher’s Dictionary fills an important niche for
undergraduates and general readers alike.