The eighth volume of Copleston’s A History of Philosophy opens with an examination of the turn to empiricism in nineteenth-century Britain, analysing the important work of utilitarian thinkers such as Bentham and Mill.

Copleston, an Oxford Jesuit and specialist in the history of philosophy, first created his history as an introduction for Catholic ecclesiastical seminaries. However, since its first publication (the last volume appearing in the mid-1970s) the series has become the classic account for all philosophy scholars and students. The 11-volume series gives an accessible account of each philosopher's work, but also explains their relationship to the work of other philosophers.

"A monumental history . . . learned, lucid, patient and comprehensive." - New Statesman

"We can only applaud at the end of each act and look forward to applauding again at the final curtain." - Times Literary Supplement

"Immensely erudite, lucid in analysis, and almost incredibly dispassionate." - The Month