The Best Free Resources in Contemporary Philosophy

For those passionate about contemporary philosophy, there are several free online resources that offer high-quality articles, in-depth analyses, and insights on a variety of current topics. Here is a selection of three essential resources.

1. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (SEP)

The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy is a key reference for contemporary philosophy. Completely free, this collaborative project edited by experts offers detailed entries on a wide range of philosophical topics, written and updated by recognized scholars. The SEP is particularly valued for its rigorous, analytical, and accessible approach, making it an essential tool for students, teachers, and anyone interested in contemporary philosophy.

The SEP was launched in 1995 by Edward N. Zalta, a researcher at the Center for the Study of Language and Information at Stanford. It is designed to be a constantly evolving resource, with articles regularly updated by specialists in the field. The project's goal is to provide academic information accessible to all, free of charge.

2. Revue Philosophiques

Philosophiques is a Quebec-based academic publication focusing on issues in philosophy. Partially available online, this journal offers articles written by researchers and philosophers from around the world. It covers a wide range of themes, from analytic philosophy to social issues, and political philosophy. It is an ideal resource for those who wish to deepen their understanding of current philosophical debates in a Francophone context.

Founded in 1974, the Philosophiques journal is published by the Société de Philosophie du Québec. Over the years, it has become a pillar of Francophone philosophical reflection in North America, providing a platform for contemporary philosophical debates and for disseminating the work of Quebec and international researchers.

3. Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy (IEP)

The Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy is another free resource that offers articles written by specialists. Unlike the SEP, which often takes a more analytical and technical approach, the IEP aims to make philosophy accessible to the general public. The articles are well-structured, clear, and cover a wide range of contemporary philosophical topics, including moral philosophy, metaphysics, and political philosophy. It is an excellent resource for beginners or those who prefer more pedagogical explanations.

The IEP was founded in 1995 by James Fieser, a professor of philosophy at the University of Tennessee at Martin. Its goal is to provide reliable articles written by academics while remaining accessible to the general public. The IEP has become one of the main online resources for philosophy, covering both classical and contemporary philosophy.

These three resources are ideal for discovering, deepening, or simply exploring current philosophical questions without having to spend a dime. Whether you are a student, an enthusiast, or simply curious, each of them can broaden your philosophical horizon.