philosophy literally means “love of wisdom”, but defining it beyond this gets a bit tricky. Simply put, philosophy deals with deep and fundamental questions: from how we should best live our lives to the basic nature of the worlds in which we live. but within this nutshell resides an entire universe of feeling, reason, and meaning (for a fuller exploration, see our popular free 3-part email course on exactly what philosophy is and why it matters today) . considering such a gigantic topic, it’s hard to know where to start.
but fear not! This reading list contains the best general introductions to philosophy. each book looks at persistent questions philosophers have addressed throughout history, questions you’ve probably asked yourself. you know them. why does something exist? what is correct? Is the world around us ‘real’?
You are reading: Introductory books on philosophy
The goal of philosophy is not necessarily to give you the answers to these questions, but rather to equip you with the right tools to do your own research and discover the answers for yourself. By presenting the approaches of the greatest minds in philosophy, the books on this list set you on that path.
1. What does this all mean? by thomas nagel
See Also: Amy Tan – Book Series In Order
thomas nagel is the brilliant contemporary philosopher behind deadly questions and vision from nowhere. written in 1987, what does all this nagel mean? is a lucid and accessible introduction to philosophy, laying out the central problems of philosophical inquiry for beginners. A slim book of just over 100 pages, Nagel covers free will, good and evil, death, language, the meaning of life, and other core topics in clear and illuminating language that anyone interested in philosophy would greatly benefit from reading.
2. the great questions of life, for philosophical rest
Life’s Big Questions distills philosophy’s best answers to some of life’s most haunting questions, taking you on a dizzying journey of reflection, understanding, and discovery. why does something exist? Is the world around us ‘real’? what makes us aware? do we have free will? how should we approach life? Packed with wisdom from the greatest philosophical minds of the last few millennia, reading materials are delivered directly to your inbox for five days, accessible forever from any device. Granted, we’re a bit biased since we produced this one, but if you’re looking to understand the basics of philosophy and get a solid foundation for exactly where you can go for more information, Life’s Big Questions gets rave reviews. , and it might be just what you’re looking for!
3. the problems of philosophy, by bertrand russell
bertrand russell was a leading figure of the 20th century. Although The History of Western Philosophy is perhaps his best-known work to the general reader, Russell wrote The Problems of Philosophy in 1912 as a brief and accessible introduction to the subject. it presents philosophy in an engaging and relevant way that ignites the reader’s curiosity. This book can be enjoyed in one night and, spoiler alert, you’ll never look at the tables the same way again.
4. think: a compelling introduction to philosophy by simon blackburn
See Also: The Best Philosophy Books of 2016 | Five Books
Published in 1999, this wonderfully written book begins with contemporary philosopher Simon Blackburn’s rallying cry for the study of philosophy, before diving into a discussion of major philosophical issues and thinkers throughout history. The deepest entry on this list, each Thought chapter acts as a stand-alone guide on topics ranging from skepticism and ethics, to self-identity and God. therefore, you can take it all in in small chunks, number by number, chapter by chapter.
5. philosophy: the basics, by nigel warburton
Nigel Warburton’s Philosophy: The Basics is ideal for an overview of the major arguments in philosophy. First published in 1992, and now in its fifth edition, Warburton’s book gently takes the reader into the world of philosophy, touching on all the big topics like God, science, art, and morality through powerful analogies and easy to understand.
further reading
Are there any other books you think should be on this list? let us know by email or send us a message on twitter or instagram.
See Also: 2 Ways to Read The Lord of the Rings Books in Order by J.R.R. Tolkien