This classic thematic anthology has long been hailed for its exceptionally rich collection of essays, personal writing, fiction and poetry, and for its ground-breaking inclusion of classic and contemporary images.

Renowned for the quality and range of its selections, The Conscious Reader presents over 150 readings representing a range of genres, a wide array of culturally diverse authors and fascinating topics, and a broad range of academic disciplines, including art, cultural studies, education, psychology, philosophy, politics, science, technology, and environmental studies. The works range from the classical—Plato's Crito—to the contemporary— Jhumpa Lahiri and David Gelerntner—and from political figures like Colin Powell and Wesley Clark to generational icons like Melissa Etheridge, John Lennon, and Tupac Shakur. Brief, flexible apparatus includes an introduction to each theme and helpful headnotes, discussion questions, and writing assignments for each selection. Perhaps the most distinguishing feature of The Conscious Reader is its inclusion of a cutting-edge selection of images designed to provoke discussion and analysis.