Recommended Reading

Written By W. L. Oliver

Ancient Philosophy

  1. "The Republic" by Plato
    A foundational text in Western philosophy, this dialogue explores justice, the ideal state, and the philosopher-king concept.

  2. "Nicomachean Ethics" by Aristotle
    This work delves into the nature of ethical virtue and the path to achieving a good life, emphasizing the importance of balance (the Golden Mean).

  3. "Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius
    A series of personal writings that reflect on Stoic philosophy, emphasizing self-discipline, virtue, and mindfulness.

  4. "Tao Te Ching" by Laozi
    A fundamental text of Taoism that offers wisdom on the nature of the universe, balance, and harmony.

  5. "The Enchiridion" by Epictetus
    A practical guide to Stoic philosophy that provides advice on how to lead a virtuous and content life.

Medieval Philosophy

  1. "Confessions" by Augustine of Hippo
    An autobiographical work that blends philosophy, theology, and autobiography, exploring the nature of God and the human soul.

  2. "The Guide for the Perplexed" by Maimonides
    A philosophical exploration of Jewish thought, attempting to reconcile religion with reason, and addressing the nature of God.

Early Modern Philosophy

  1. "Meditations on First Philosophy" by René Descartes
    A foundational text in modern philosophy questioning existence and knowledge, famously asserting, "I think, therefore I am."

  2. "Critique of Pure Reason" by Immanuel Kant
    A complex examination of how we experience the world and the relationship between knowledge, perception, and reality.

  3. "The Social Contract" by Jean-Jacques Rousseau
    This work examines political philosophy, focusing on the concepts of freedom, equality, and the nature of government.

Modern Philosophy

  1. "Being and Time" by Martin Heidegger
    A profound work examining existence, time, and the nature of being, influencing existentialism and phenomenology.

  2. "The Second Sex" by Simone de Beauvoir
    A foundational text in feminist philosophy that explores the construction of womanhood and gender inequality.

  3. "Existentialism is a Humanism" by Jean-Paul Sartre
    A brief yet impactful introduction to Sartre’s existentialist philosophy, emphasizing freedom, choice, and responsibility.

  4. "A Theory of Justice" by John Rawls
    A significant work in political philosophy proposing a framework for a just society based on fairness and equality.

  5. "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions" by Thomas S. Kuhn
    A transformative work exploring the nature of scientific progress and paradigm shifts, impacting the philosophy of science.

Contemporary Philosophy

  1. "The Phenomenology of Spirit" by G.W.F. Hegel
    A complex exploration of consciousness and self-awareness, culminating in the development of Spirit (Geist) within history.

  2. "Justice: What's the Right Thing to Do?" by Michael Sandel
    A contemporary exploration of ethics and moral philosophy, engaging readers in discussions about justice, fairness, and the common good.

  3. "The Ethics of Ambiguity" by Simone de Beauvoir
    A profound examination of existentialist ethics, focusing on the complexities of freedom and responsibility in human relationships.

  4. "What Does It All Mean? A Very Short Introduction to Philosophy" by Thomas Nagel
    A concise, accessible introduction to a range of philosophical questions and issues, making it an excellent starting point for newcomers.

Recent Philosophy

  1. "American Philosophy: A Love Story" by John Kaag
    Kaag reflects on American philosophy through the lens of his own life, examining how philosophy can provide meaning and direction.

  2. "This Life: Secular Faith and Spiritual Freedom" by Martin Hägglund
    Hägglund argues for a secular understanding of faith and the importance of living fully within the constraints of our mortality.

  3. "The Monarchy of Fear: A Philosopher Looks at Our Political Crisis" by Martha Nussbaum
    Nussbaum explores the emotional landscape behind current political anxieties in America, offering a philosophical framework to address fear and promote understanding.

  4. "How to Be an Existentialist" by Gary Cox
    Cox provides insights into existentialist thought and what it means to live an authentic life, tackling issues of choice, responsibility, and freedom.

  5. "The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power" by Shoshana Zuboff
    A thorough examination of how technology impacts our lives, raising critical questions about privacy, autonomy, and the implications of living in a surveillance-driven society.

  6. "What We Owe the Future" by William MacAskill
    Focusing on long-termism and ethics, MacAskill discusses how our decisions today affect future generations and encourages us to consider the broader implications of our actions.

  7. "The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph" by Ryan Holiday
    Drawing on Stoic philosophy, this book teaches how to turn obstacles into opportunities for growth and success.

  8. "Ego Is the Enemy" by Ryan Holiday
    Holiday explores how ego can be our worst enemy and offers strategies for overcoming it to achieve personal and professional success.

W. L. Oliver
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