The Thinker's Apprentice

The Thinker’s Apprentice is an easy-to-understand introduction to philosophy course, designed for independent learners and homeschoolers. This book explores philosophy's biggest questions and how history’s greatest thinkers—Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Locke, and more—have answered them. With short, accessible lessons and discussion prompts, students will develop critical thinking skills and gain a strong foundation in philosophy. Perfect for high schoolers and anyone eager to think deeply about the world.

The Thinker’s Apprentice is a different kind of philosophy course. Instead of following a historical timeline, it begins with the core questions and explores how different philosophers across time have attempted to answer them. This approach allows students to consider contrasting ideas side-by-side and to form their own thoughtful responses.

Each unit introduces a big question and offers a short, conversational lesson exploring how a range of thinkers with competing views have approached it. Readers then explore thought experiments and real-life scenarios that bring the ideas to life. These case studies are designed to spark meaningful discussion or personal reflection. To encourage further engagement and deeper thinking, writing prompts are included at the end of each unit.

Rather than memorize names or dates, students will practice thinking more deeply, asking better questions, and recognizing the ideas that shape the world around them.

This is a book about philosophy—but more than that, it’s a book about becoming a thinker.

Each unit begins with a Big Question like “What is truth?” or “What is the good life?”
Students then read a short, conversational lesson introducing several philosophers’ competing views.
Next, they engage with thought experiments and case studies that make the ideas feel relevant and practical.
Finally, writing prompts and discussion questions allow learners to reflect, respond, or debate.