Plato and Aristotle of the Discussion, 1437, Lucadaloovia (CA 1400-1482), painted marble tiles … more
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Philosophy books can help you look to new ways of thinking and develop a more trained, informed approach to life. The best philosophical books describe complex topics using simple language and true examples that show concepts explored in nihilism, aesthetics, logic and metaphysics. After reading a good book on philosophy, you can look into your own personal beliefs from a more informed perspective. Whether you’re interested in moral or political philosophy or want to read more modern takes, you can find what you’re looking for in these powerful books. A great list of books on philosophy includes take on ancient and modern times.
Top philosophical books
Philosophy books include anything that examines the acquisition of knowledge, creation of values, and logic of rationality. Classical philosophy includes ideas from ancient Greeks and Romans, such as famous writers Plato and Aristotle. Modern philosophy includes 17th century thinkers and is based on the works of medieval and Renaissance philosophers.
Fiction also includes philosophical themes. For example, novelists who examine ethics and morality are exposed to philosophy. Horror, mystery and science fiction are great vehicles for this type of intellectual research. This list includes non-fiction books ranked in the uniqueness of insights, academic rigor of hypotheses, commercial popularity, and enduring value.
10. Aristotle’s Poem (4th century BC)
Aristotle published his first Greek work examining dramatic theory from a philosophical perspective, highlighting the importance of art in building a powerful society. He divides the shapes of poetry into distinctive groups and observes the differences in the way they mimic real life.
This book is perfect for drama lovers and Greek mythology fans. Aristotle’s poetics are available from the publisher Penguin Random House.
9. Second Government Paper by John Locke (1689)
As it was considered one of the classics of political philosophy that forms the basis of modern liberalism, the second government paper considers the fundamental elements of humanity. It covers discussions about tolerance and mere government, and falls into more modern concerns about the intrinsic freedom of citizens and how to support them.
This book is perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about liberalism. John Locke’s second government paper is available from the publisher Oxford University Press.
8. Aphepescism by Frank B. Wildson III (2020)
Frank B. Wildson III’s accessible yet intellectual appearance on how race influenced moral and political decisions is longlisted for the National Book Award. He delves into the history of black enslavement in America and how it continues to affect people today.
This book is perfect for anyone interested in identity and history. Frank B. Wildson III’s aphepesemism is available from the publisher WW Norton.
7. Intent by Gem Anscombe (1957)
The intention is one of the philosophical cornerstones of the 20th century. Gem Anscombe examines how intentions can set us up (unintentionally) for problems that are seemingly difficult to solve. She sees the reasons behind the agents and people who act in their way. The book was welcomed when it was published as a genius work.
This book is perfect for those interested in a philosophy of examining behavior. Gem Anscombe’s intent is available from the publisher Harvard University Press.
6. Confessions by Augustine the Hippo (around 400 AD)
Augustine, also known as St. Augustine, Augustine, grew up with her parents on both sides of the religious spectrum. The saint’s meditation on how he came to accept Christianity makes one of the best philosophical books on Christian doctrine.
This book is perfect for those looking for interdisciplinary works. Hippo’s Confession Augustine is available from the publisher Penguin Random House.
Botticelli’s 1480 St. Augustine is depicted in his cells. He wrote that he is also known as Augustine the Hippo … more
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5. Important Body by Judith Butler (1993)
The philosopher Judith Butler (them/them) has developed a powerful theory of gender. Their work, often cited by feminist and queer theorists, challenges traditional notions of gender, arguing that power “constrains” sex. They also explore the roles of sex and gender in performance, drawing inspiration from the great literature of their work.
This book is perfect for those interested in gender identity. Judith Butler’s organization is available from the publisher Routledge.
4. The Art of War by the Sun Tzu (5th Century BC)
The famous Chinese military papers devote each of the 13 chapters to different military tactics, and are undoubtedly the most famous book on war philosophy. It sees the moral obligations of war and the way it asserts that it is fair. Sun Tzu emphasizes unity rather than military size, as an important success factor.
This book is perfect for anyone interested in the philosophy of war. Sun Tzu’s The Art of War is available from the publisher Penguin Random House.
3. Mary Wolstnecraft’s Prove of Women’s Rights (1792)
Mary Walstonecraft’s expanded essay is one of the first works of feminist philosophy. Her reaction to critics who oppose women’s education explains how women can better support their families and become more than just wives, rather than seeking a gender revolution.
This book is perfect for anyone interested in early feminist theory. Mary Walstonecraft’s Women’s Rights Proof is available from the publisher Penguin Random House.
2. Second Sex by SimoneDeBeauvoir (1949)
Second Sex, one of the most influential (and controversial) philosophical books ever published, has helped to spark a second wave of feminism. De Beauvoir begins with the question, “What is a woman?” And how women have been defined rather than others, namely men. She also rejects traditional views on what women should be.
This book is perfect for those who have been interested in treating women in the past. Simone de Beauvoir’s The Second Sex is available from the publisher Penguin Random House.
1. Plato’s Republic (375 BC)
Plato wrote this investigation of justice and one of the most influential philosophical books in history about whether a fair man is happier than an unjust man. Using Socrates’ dialogue, Plato proposes a utopian state called Kalipolis, taking into account the nature of the current regime compared to ideals.
This book is perfect for anyone interested in ethics and self-help books. The Republic of Plato is available from the publisher Penguin Random House.
Conclusion
Philosophy books can give you a new perspective on issues and educate you. Choosing one of these works will expand your mind and encourage new questions worth answering in your own everyday life.
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