Books matching: philosophical discussions
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- #1
Save:The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is a classic tale exploring the consequences of vanity and moral degradation. The story follows Dorian Gray, a young man who makes a Faustian deal to retain his youth and beauty while his portrait ages and reflects the consequences of his debauched lifestyle. The novel delves into themes of the value of youth, the meaning of life, and the impact of one's actions on oneself and others, leaving readers pondering questions of free will and self-improvement. Wilde's writing style is described as brilliant, witty, and horrifying, with a focus on decadence, morality, and the consequences of one's choices.
The studio was filled with the rich odour of roses, and when the light summer wind stirred amidst the trees of the garden there came through the open door the heavy scent of the lilac, or the more del... - #2
Save:"Fathers and Sons" by Ivan Turgenev is a novel that delves into the complex relationship between parents and children, specifically fathers and sons, set against the backdrop of 19th-century Russia. The book explores themes of generational conflict, love, pride, loss, and the struggle for individuality. Through the characters of Bazarov and Arkady, Turgenev contrasts nihilism with romanticism, while also portraying the tensions between traditional values and modern ideologies. The narrative moves through various social classes, providing insights into the changing landscape of Russian society during that era.
'Well, Piotr, not in sight yet?' was the question asked on May the 20th, 1859, by a gentleman of a little over forty, in a dusty coat and checked trousers, who came out without his hat on to the low s... - #3
Save:In "Calculating God" by Robert J. Sawyer, the story revolves around an advanced alien civilization that visits Earth to discuss theology with a paleontologist. The aliens present evidence supporting the existence of God, which challenges the beliefs of the human characters, particularly the protagonist, Thomas Jericho, who is a lifelong atheist. Throughout the book, there are philosophical discussions, debates on intelligent design, and explorations of the implications of extraterrestrial beliefs on humanity's understanding of existence and evolution. The plot unfolds through dialogue-heavy scenes that delve into complex ideas while also touching on themes of life, death, evolution, and the nature of intelligent life.
The writing style of the book is described as thought-provoking, imaginative, and well-developed. Readers appreciate the creative premise that challenges conventional views on theology and intelligent design. Despite some pacing issues and occasional philosophical tangents, the book is commended for its intriguing concepts, well-written characters, and emotionally engaging narrative. The author's ability to blend science, philosophy, and storytelling in a way that stimulates reflection and discussion is highlighted, making "Calculating God" a unique and intellectually stimulating read for fans of science fiction.
The Royal Ontario Museum really exists, and, of course, it has a real director, real curators, real security guards, and so on. However, all the characters in this novel are entirely the product of my... - #4
Save:In 'The Gate Thief', Orson Scott Card continues his quasi mythological tale featuring Danny, a powerful Gate Mage, as he navigates saving the world from evil forces while dealing with fellow mages who view humans as inferior. The book delves into complex world-building with elements of philosophy, mythology, and teenage angst, all while exploring the dynamics of power, morality, and cosmic conflicts. The plot unfolds with twists and turns, leading to a cliffhanger ending that sets the stage for a larger conflict.
On a certain day in November, in the early afternoon, if you had just parked your car at Kenney’s burger place in Buena Vista, Virginia, or maybe you were walking into Nick’s Italian Kitchen or Todd’s...
(Also, see 83 recommendations for the series Mither Mages ) 'The Dream of Enlightenment: The Rise of Modern Philosophy' by Anthony Gottlieb explores the period from the 1630s to the eve of the French Revolution in 1789, focusing on the Enlightenment philosophers and their revolutionary ideas. The author delves into the lives and philosophies of key figures such as Descartes, Locke, Rousseau, and Hume, highlighting their contributions to the advancement of reason and logic in society. Gottlieb presents a critical discussion of the thinkers' struggles for a valid theory of knowledge and their progressive social ideas, emphasizing the importance of this period in human history as a beacon to future generations of free thinkers.
The writing style of the book is informative, engaging, and humanizing, portraying the philosophers as individuals with flaws and contradictions. Gottlieb provides a chronological timetable of European thinkers involved in the Enlightenment movement, illustrating the rapid emergence of humanity from a long period of dark ignorance. The author also discusses the influence of these philosophers on various aspects of society, from the waning power of religious authorities to the advancement of science and the dismantling of feudalistic political institutions.
DESCARTES (1596–1650) WAS A PARTICULARLY KNOWLEDGEABLE MAN, but he is more famous for what he pretended to doubt than for what he actually knew. How can I be sure that I am not dreaming?, he asked. Ho...- #6
Save:In "Lila: An Inquiry Into Morals" by Robert M. Pirsig, the story follows Phaedrus on a philosophical journey aboard a sailing boat with a troubled young woman named Lila. The plot is described as a clash of opposites between Phaedrus and Lila, prompting a crisis that forces Phaedrus to ponder fundamental questions about human values and morality. The book delves into conflicts of values, explores the concept of Quality, and introduces a system of understanding and evaluating actions based on four evolutionary realms - natural, biological, social, and intellectual. Pirsig's writing style is noted to be plain and dense, with short sentences that require careful reading to grasp the philosophical discussions interwoven with the storyline.
Lila didn’t know he was here. She was sound asleep, apparently in some fearful dream. In the darkness he heard a grating sound of her teeth and felt her body suddenly turn as she struggled against som...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Phaedrus ) 'Phaedo' by Plato is a Socratic dialogue that delves into philosophical discussions surrounding the soul, immortality, and the purpose of life. The narrative follows Socrates in the moments leading up to his death as recounted by Phaedo, exploring ideas of Forms, the relationship between the body and soul, and the nature of knowledge and wisdom. The writing style is characterized by colorful character portrayals, easy-to-follow dialectics, and a blend of philosophical questions with pseudo-scientific speculations.
The Project Gutenberg EBook of Phaedo, by Plato This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the...- #8
Save:'The Elegance of the Hedgehog' by Muriel Barbery is a novel that intertwines the narratives of two protagonists, a concierge named Renee and a precocious twelve-year-old girl named Paloma, living in a Parisian apartment building. Both characters hide their intelligence and true selves from those around them, but share their wit and wisdom with the reader. The story explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the relationships between different social classes, all while delving into philosophical musings and reflections on art and literature. As a new tenant, Mr. Ozu, enters their lives, Renee and Paloma's worlds are forever changed, leading to unexpected revelations and transformations.
My name is Renée. I am fifty-four years old. For twenty-seven years I have been the concierge at number 7, rue de Grenelle, a fine hôtel particulier with a courtyard and private gardens, divided into ... - #9
Save:Maya by Jostein Gaarder weaves a philosophical tale through the story of Frank, a Norwegian evolutionary biologist, and a group of characters on a Fijian island. The narrative unfolds as a letter written by Frank to his estranged wife, exploring themes of existence, evolution, and the nature of reality. The book intertwines scientific ideas with fiction but often feels convoluted and hard to follow. Many readers found the philosophical discussions repetitive and the plot uneven, turning what could be a profound exploration into a frustrating experience.
Gaarder's writing style is both praised and criticized. Some readers appreciate his deep and intricate storytelling, while others find it overly dense and self-indulgent. The characters serve more as mouthpieces for philosophical ideas rather than fully fleshed-out individuals. The novel includes elements of mystique and surrealism, with a focus on complex theories like GaiaMaya, but the execution leaves many puzzled and disappointed. Overall, Maya evokes mixed feelings, offering both thought-provoking content and a narrative that struggles to hold together.
- #10
Save:'The Passenger' by Cormac McCarthy follows the character Bobby Western, a loner wanderer who faces great danger after stumbling across something mysterious. Alongside Bobby's story, there is a second thread involving his sister Alicia, a paranoid schizophrenic. The novel delves into themes of regret, grief, paranoia, the apocalypse, and living in a world that defies explanation. McCarthy's descriptive prose is praised for its matchless quality, although some readers found certain sections hard to follow due to detailed discussions on physics and complex topics.
This then would be Chicago in the winter of the last year of her life. In a week’s time she would return to Stella Maris and from there wander away into the bleak Wisconsin woods. The Thalidomide Kid ...
