Where should I start to learn about philosophy in general?

Get a good background in the basic introductory guides, Introducing Philosophy and Philosophy for Beginners. Then, definitely study Aristotle, Plato, Aquinas (the five proofs), Hobbes, Locke (the British empiricists), Nietzsche and the existentialists, Derrida and Foucult.

Where should a beginner start in philosophy?

The Best Philosophy Books for Beginners

  1. Plato: Five Dialogues by Plato.
  2. The Emperor’s New Mind by Roger Penrose.
  3. Mengzi: With Selections from Traditional Commentaries translated by Bryan W. …
  4. Meno by Plato.
  5. Republic by Plato.
  6. Discourse on Method by Rene Descartes.
  7. Symposium by Plato.
  8. The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins.

Can I learn philosophy by myself?

(the long answer) Yes. You can learn philosophy on your own. Just like you can learn biology, programming, and calculus to name a few. Things tend to be on a continuum of difficulty for self-learning and it varies by individuals.

Where should I study philosophy?

Generally, the best area for a philosophy major in the U.S. is in New York – such as New York University (NYU) and SUNY Brockport. NYU is the top school of philosophy in the United States.

How do I start my philosophy in life?

STARTER TIPS FOR DEVELOPING A PERSONAL PHILOSOPHY:

  1. Start with around 25 words. If it feels right at the length, okay. …
  2. Write it down and read it repeatedly. Does it sound right?
  3. If one of your most intimate relationships heard your personal philosophy, would they agree with what you’ve written?
  4. Ask yourself why.


Which philosopher is easiest to read?

10 easy & must-read Philosophy Books

  • Apology of Socrates by Plato.
  • Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle.
  • The discourse on method by Descartes.
  • Candide or Optimism by Voltaire.
  • Beyond good and evil by Nietzsche.
  • Crime and Punishment by Dostoyevsky.
  • The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Kundera.

What age should you start reading philosophy?

This book would make a great gift for teachers, students and anyone interested in some of the big eternal questions. I would recommend it for ages 12+ given its clear writing style that illuminates and contextualises some of the most important ideas in philosophy.

Is studying philosophy hard?

Readings for philosophy courses are generally not long, but they are difficult and challenging. You cannot expect to go through an assigned reading once and have an adequate grasp of it. Some students seem to thrive on the painstaking study required, while others simply don’t have the patience for it.

What jobs can philosophy get you?

These highly critical, analytical, and argumentative skills that are developed often lead students to pursue legal studies, MBA programs, or seminaries. Jobs for philosophy majors include a lawyer, systems analyst, cultural affairs officer, technical writer, and a critic.

How do I become a philosopher?

To successfully pursue philosophy as a career, you must acquire a doctorate or, at very least, a master’s degree. Earning a living from philosophy means using your knowledge and (hopefully) wisdom to produce original works of philosophical thought and, usually, to teach others about the field.

What is the best introduction to philosophy?

The Four Best Introductory Books on Philosophy

  • Sophie’s World by Jostein Gaarder.
  • A History of Western Philosophy by Bertrand Russell.
  • Philosophy: The Basics by Nigel Warburton.
  • The Story of Philosophy by Will Durant.


Which philosophy book should I read first?

When people ask where they ought to begin in reading philosophy I always suggest starting with Plato. And given how important his teacher, Socrates, was in Plato’s own philosophical development, why not begin with these dialogues that set out the drama of Socrates’ trial, conviction, imprisonment, and execution?

How do I start Plato?

And he comes across a man named use the throw. And they begin a dialogue which all of Plato's. Works are pretty much and used to throw in form Socrates that he's on the way to court as well.

How smart do you have to be to study philosophy?

Originally Answered: Do you have to be intelligent to study a degree in philosophy? You do not need to be intelligent to study anything. You just have to have a willingness to learn. However, you have to be extraordinarily intelligent to be a recognized philosopher.

Should I read philosophy books?

Why You Should Read Philosophy? Since logic and reason are the cornerstones of philosophy, taking the time out to read books on the subject can help you become a better thinker and evolve your ability to reason.

How can I understand philosophy?

To build great philosophical reading skills you’ll need to cultivate some philosophical empathy and self-criticism. Writing philosophy is challenging. Be empathetic: after you come up with some possible criticism, imagine taking the role of your opponent and try to answer your criticisms.

Who was the greatest philosopher of all time?

Aristotle

Aristotle. Aristotle (384–322 BCE), who follows Socrates and Plato as the third member of the great triumvirate of ancient Greek philosophers, is arguably the most important thinker who ever lived.

Who is the father of philosopher?

Socrates of Athens (l. c. 470/469-399 BCE) is among the most famous figures in world history for his contributions to the development of ancient Greek philosophy which provided the foundation for all of Western Philosophy. He is, in fact, known as the “Father of Western Philosophy” for this reason.

Does Socrates believe in God?

Socrates also believes in deity, but his conception is completely different from the typical Athenians. While to the Athenians gods are human-like and confused, Socrates believes god to be perfectly good and perfectly wise. His god is rationally moral. His god also has a purpose.

Who is the mother of philosophy?

It is impossible to identify one person who is supposed to be the “father” or “mother” of philosophy, but Thales, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Confucius and Lao Zi might be considered influential figures within their respective traditions.