This is an important book. It gives a wonderful overview of the most important trends in philosophical thought over the ages. The author does a great job of explaining everything in a clear and concise manner. I think that this author is also commendable because, although he is not religious, he pays a great deal of respect to religious traditions. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is new to philosophy of has forgotten most of what they learned in their mandatory college philosophy class. This is a truly elegant book. What to say about this book? A brilliant layman-friendly outline of the great ideas of western intellectual thought. Well conceived and organized, well written, simple without being simplistic or condescending, it covers thousands of years of history and explanations of the greatest ideas in the history of mankind. Ideas that give our lives meaning and purpose, ideas that have driven the development of western civilization and that underpin all that we have come to accept as reality in our lives. It is at turns unbelievably frustrating (have you ever found yourself yelling at an electronic book like it could talk back?) and sublimely awe inspiring, I learned a great deal without being overwhelmed by the incomprehensible writing of the great philosophers. From the Stoics to Kant, the author lovingly describes brilliant concepts (even when he disagrees) and provides a deep appreciation for ideas and how they advanced western civilization. It is not all objective review, however. The author has a specific philosophical viewpoint (humanism) that he believes advances to new heights the philosophical idea. While I am sympathetic to his general world view, he takes a dim view of religion as a real source of answers. This is interesting primarily because he defines philosophy as a search for salvation and the overcoming of the fear of death. Can secular philosophy really solve for this problem?What I love about books like this is that they force you to think, they are fun to read and they can still make you scream. Unquestionably the most accessible book on western intellectual thought or philosophy that I've ever read. If you have any interest, don't be intimidated, read it.
What do You think about Apprendre A Vivre (2006)?
Recommended by Tim Keller as a to read on understanding culture and how to engage appropriately.
—rosey
A good place to start, a very clear and concise overview of major philosophical ideas.
—retno
I finished it! That is an accomplishment itself for the author ;)
—Kortny
An excellent guide for the beginners to philosophy!
—UkeMandrivnyk
