Philosophy gifts

Consolations by David Whyte delves into the intricate and multifaceted nature of human emotions and experiences, offering profound reflections on the aspects of life that often evoke discomfort and unease. Whyte courageously addresses themes such as loss, heartbreak, vulnerability, and fear, providing a fresh and insightful perspective that encourages readers to embrace these challenges rather than avoid them. Each chapter...

The Social Contract by Jean-Jacques Rousseau is a seminal work that delves into the fundamental principles of political right and social organization. This thought-provoking book starts with the powerful declaration, "Man was born free, and he is everywhere in chains," setting the stage for an exploration of the tension between individual liberty and societal obligations. In an era marked by...

We are all going to die, so how do we live? A traumatised journalist is given a dream assignment - track down the mayor of a remote and mysterious town whose citizens are reported to be the happiest people on earth. Journeying into a harsh and inhospitable landscape, she overcomes many obstacles before arriving in Silver Springs, the place whose...

Don't hope that events will turn out the way you want, welcome events in whichever way they happen. How can we cope when life's events seem beyond our control? These words of consolation and inspiration from the three great Stoic philosophers—Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius—offer ancient wisdom on how to face life's adversities and live well in the world. GREAT...

If we do what is right, everything else will follow: happiness, success, meaning, reputation, love. This is central to Stoic wisdom. The path isn't always easy, but it is essential, and the alternative — taking the easy route — leads only to cowardice and folly. In the third book in his bestselling Stoic Virtues series, Ryan Holiday explores the crucial...

One of the great masterpieces of 17th-century English prose, Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes is a profound and influential work that delves into the nature of human society and the necessity of a strong central authority. Hobbes presents a compelling social contract theory, wherein individuals collectively agree to surrender some freedoms to a sovereign power in exchange for security and order....

In Civilization and Its Discontents: Popular Penguins, Sigmund Freud embarks on an exploration of the fundamental tensions that exist between the individual and the demands of society. Written during his later years, Freud delves deep into the psychological underpinnings that foster the complex relationship between our innate desires and the constraints imposed by cultural norms. This profound investigation is not...

David Whyte's Consolations use everyday words to present us with a prism through which to better understand ourselves and the lives we walk through. At the request of readers globally, Whyte returns with fifty-two short, elegant meditations on a single word, ranging from 'Anxiety' to 'Body', 'Freedom', 'Shame', and 'Moon'. He embraces their nuances, amplitudes, and depths and, in doing...

Immerse yourself in a delightful journey of contemplation and wit with Every Time I Find the Meaning of Life, They Change It by Daniel Klein. This captivating book takes readers on a humorous and philosophical adventure as Klein revisits and re-evaluates the wisdom treasures he cherished in his youth. Set against the backdrop of his eighth decade, Klein shares his...

Discipline and Punish by Michel Foucault delves deeply into the history and development of modern penal systems. It explores the transformations in Western societies' approach to punishment, shifting from a grotesque and public spectacle of torture to a more civilised, seemingly humane practice of incarceration. Foucault meticulously traces the evolution of social control mechanisms, presenting a compelling argument that modern...

Winner of the International Lannan Literary Award for Nonfiction Animal tracks, word magic, the speech of stones, the power of letters, and the taste of the wind all figure prominently in this intellectual tour de force that returns us to our senses and to the sensuous terrain that sustains us. This major work of ecological philosophy startles the senses out...

The book Nietzsche called “the most personal of all my books.” It was here that he first proclaimed the death of God—to which a large part of the book is devoted—and his doctrine of the eternal recurrence. Walter Kaufmann's commentary, with its many quotations from previously untranslated letters, brings to life Nietzsche as a human being and illuminates his philosophy....

Nobody in Western civilisation had ever tried to do what Montaigne set out to do. In a vivid, contemporary style, he moves swiftly from thought to thought, often digressing from an idea only to return, having caught up with it elsewhere. In these essays, Montaigne lays out for his contemporaries and for us his plan for how a man might...

46 new books in the bestselling Little Black Classics series, to celebrate the first ever Penguin Classic in 1946. Anecdotes of the Cynics It's you who are the dogs... These tales capture the wit and wisdom of the Cynics, exploring their unique philosophical perspectives through engaging anecdotes.

A SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER BLACKWELL'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2021 Essential lessons on the world we live in, from one of our greatest young thinkers – a guide to what everybody is talking about today ‘Unparalleled and extraordinary . . . A bracing revivification of a crucial lineage in feminist writing’ — JIA TOLENTINO ‘I believe Amia Srinivasan’s work will...

What Is Existentialism? by Simone de Beauvoir provides a profound exploration into the philosophical realm of existentialism, encouraging readers to examine the nature of existence and human freedom. Through meticulous essays and thought-provoking discourse, de Beauvoir delves into the intricacies of how we perceive and interact with the world. The book challenges readers to consider the inherent meaninglessness of life...

The Will to Power is a profound and influential collection of Friedrich Nietzsche's thoughts, detailing some of his most crucial and radical reflections on philosophy. The text delves deep into the recesses of nihilism, metaphysics, the philosophy of morality, and the future of Europe, alongside Nietzsche’s enduring concept of the 'will to power'. The idea proposes that the main driving...

In the course of a lively drinking party, a group of prominent Athenian intellectuals, including philosophers, playwrights, and aristocrats, come together to exchange views on the nature of eros, or desire. The setting of this engaging dialogue is the home of the tragedian Agathon, where the guests take turns delivering speeches that delve into various aspects of love, culminating in...

In The Art of Living, Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh uncovers the profound art of living mindfully amidst the complexities and turbulence of modern life. As one of the world's most revered spiritual leaders, Thich Nhat Hanh gently guides readers through an exploration of mindfulness that addresses life’s deepest questions, nurturing the inner peace, joy, and freedom we all seek....

Homo Deus, by Yuval Noah Harari, embarks on a profound exploration of humanity's future, foreseeing a dramatic shift as we evolve from Homo sapiens into something entirely new. Harari masterfully delves into the trajectory of human advancement, painting a vivid picture of the twenty-first century and the potential paths our species might take. In a world where technology rapidly progresses...

A lucid guide to humankind's greatest thinkers, from Aristotle to Peter Singer "A primer in human existence: philosophy has rarely seemed so lucid, so important, so worth doing and so easy to enter into. . . . A wonderful introduction for anyone who's ever felt curious about almost anything." —Sarah Bakewell, author of How To Live: A Life of Montaigne...

Selected Writings brings together the major writings of the great Italian philosopher. In his reflections on Christianity, Saint Thomas Aquinas forged a unique synthesis of ancient philosophy and medieval theology. Preoccupied with the relationship between faith and reason, he was influenced both by Aristotle's rational worldview and by the powerful belief that wisdom and truth can ultimately only be reached...

This collection captures the essence of a remarkable woman, one of the foremost thinkers of our century. Simone Weil was one of the foremost thinkers of the twentieth century—a philosopher, theologian, critic, sociologist and political activist. This anthology spans the wide range of her thought and includes an extract from her best-known work The Need for Roots, exploring the ways...

The past year has seen a resurgence of interest in the political thinker Hannah Arendt, "the theorist of beginnings," whose work probes the logics underlying unexpected transformations—from totalitarianism to revolution. A work of striking originality, The Human Condition is in many respects more relevant now than when it first appeared in 1958. In her study of the state of modern...

The Precipice by Toby Ord is a captivating exploration into one of the most pivotal times in human history. The book presents a compelling narrative that merges cutting-edge science, thoughtful philosophy, and nuanced ethical considerations as it delves into humanity's greatest existential risks and the steps we must take to ensure our survival. Ord illustrates how the future of humanity...

In God is Dead. God Remains Dead. And We Have Killed Him., renowned philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche explores profound and controversial themes central to the existential movement. The work is a searing critique of religion, morality, and the profound shift in human consciousness that ensues with the death of God. Nietzsche posits a world where traditional beliefs are no longer tenable,...

Being Happy by Epicurus is a timeless collection that delves into the profound teachings of one of the most influential philosophers of antiquity. Epicurus, the father of Epicureanism, presents his thoughts on the nature of happiness, the methods to achieve it, and the role of philosophy as a therapeutic tool. Through his exploration of these themes, Epicurus highlights the importance...

The Daily Stoic Journal by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman provides an exceptional pathway towards mastering the principles of Stoicism in our modern lives. Amid the chaos and distractions of today's world, this journal is designed to guide readers through a year of meaningful reflection and structured self-examination, all while building a foundation of wisdom and virtue inspired by classical...

See more clearly, live more wisely, and bear the burdens of this life with greater ease—here are the greatest insights of the Stoics, in their own words. Presented in twelve lessons, Ward Farnsworth systematically presents the heart of Stoic philosophy accompanied by commentary that is clear and concise. A foundational idea to Stoicism is that we appear to go through...

'The past is over. The future isn't promised. But what you do next is your choice for the taking. It's where the change happens. Choose wisely.' Neale Daniher is in his thirteenth year of living with Motor Neurone Disease. His body is broken and he can no longer speak, but his mind is sharp and his capacity to give, unvanquished....

The RZA, the Abbot of the Wu-Tang Clan and one of hip-hop culture's most dynamic figures, imparts the lessons he learned on the journey that took him from the Staten Island projects to international superstardom, all the while a devout student of knowledge in every form he's found it - on the streets, in religion, in martial arts, in chess...

Xenophon's fascinating defence of Socratic thought. After the execution of Socrates in 399 BC, a number of his followers wrote dialogues featuring him as the protagonist and, in so doing, transformed the great philosopher into a legendary figure. Xenophon's portrait is the only one other than Plato's to survive, and while it offers a very personal interpretation of Socratic thought,...

"It's hard to be brave," said Piglet, sniffing slightly, "when you're only a Very Small Animal." Rabbit, who had begun to write very busily, looked up and said: "It is because you are a very small animal that you will be useful in the adventure before us." Winnie-the-Pooh has a certain way about him, a way of doing things that...

Required reading for anyone who believes in the equality of the sexes. A long-awaited, highly acclaimed new translation of Simone de Beauvoir's landmark work. One is not born, but rather becomes, woman First published in Paris in 1949, The Second Sex by Simone de Beauvoir was a groundbreaking, risqué book that became a runaway success. Selling 20,000 copies in its...

INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER In story after page-turning story, Lives of the Stoics brings ancient philosophers to life. - David Epstein, bestselling author of Range Wonderful - Chris Bosh, two-time NBA Champion For millennia, Stoicism has been the ancient philosophy that attracts those who seek greatness, from athletes to politicians and everyone in between. And no wonder: its embrace...

The Birth of Tragedy by Friedrich Nietzsche delves into the heart of ancient Greek culture, shedding light on its glorious artistic achievements, particularly in the realm of tragedy. In this profound exploration, Nietzsche grapples with the sombre beauty that lies within Greek tragedies, examining the interplay between two opposing artistic forces: the Apollonian, representing order and rationality, and the Dionysian,...

An extraordinary, uncompromising and consoling celebration of a life – through childhood, faith, family, love, friendship, pain and loss – written as its author was facing her own mortality. Gillian Rose was a star academic, acclaimed as one of the most dazzling and original thinkers of her time. Told that she had incurable cancer, she found a new way to...

Unlock the power of your consciousness and discover your limitless potential with New York Times bestselling author and master of modern meditation, Deepak Chopra. 'A guide to wake up to who we truly are. Awakening is powerful, practical and life-changing - it shows us how to move beyond fear and step into freedom, purpose and possibility.' Jay Shetty, #1 New...

Twenty-five years after the publication of his groundbreaking first book, Malcolm Gladwell returns with a brand new volume that reframes the lessons of The Tipping Point in a startling and revealing light. 'Addictive... fascinating and provocative' Guardian 'Malcolm Gladwell explores the watershed moments that define this new age of societal upheaval... with curiosity and humour' TIME Magazine 'Gladwell is a...

A witty introduction to the mind of Goethe, a classic in a new translation for the first time in 150 years. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was the world's most celebrated poet, novelist, critic, and thinker, and this is the best way of knowing him. Today, his name is echoed as that of a 'great man' alongside Plato, Montaigne, and Shakespeare....

An extraordinary and challenging synthesis of ideas uniting Quantum Theory, and the theories of Computation, Knowledge and Evolution, Deutsch's extraordinary book explores the deep connections between these strands which reveal the fabric of reality in which human actions and ideas play essential roles.

Schopenhauer believed that human action is determined not by reason but by will—the blind and irrational desire for physical existence. These writings depict individuals struggling in a Godless world, in which art, morality, and self-awareness are our only salvation. One of the greatest philosophers of the nineteenth century, Schopenhauer (1788-1860) believed that human action is governed by will rather than...

A major new translation by Dominic Baker-Smith of More's perennially popular Latin text. Utopia is Thomas More's work of philosophical fiction, imagining the island of the title, on which thousands live in peace and harmony. Through dialogue and correspondence between Raphael Hythloday and his friends and contemporaries, More explores the theories behind war, political disagreements, social quarrels, and wealth distribution,...

The beloved multidisciplinary classic on the spaces we inhabit and the dreams and memories that fill them. A beloved multidisciplinary treatise comes to Penguin Classics. Since its initial publication in 1958, The Poetics of Space has been a muse to philosophers, architects, writers, psychologists, critics, and readers alike. This rare work of irresistibly inviting philosophy brims with quiet revelations and...

The Origins and History of Consciousness is an extraordinary exploration of the evolution of human consciousness through the lens of world mythology. Erich Neumann, a pioneering figure in analytical psychology and a distinguished student of C. G. Jung, offers a profound and intricate analysis of the archetypal processes that shape the development of individual and collective consciousness. At the heart...

In The Art of Rhetoric, Aristotle delves into the intricacies of the art of persuasion, offering an extensive analysis of rhetoric as a central component of public discourse. The book is divided into three primary sections, each addressing different aspects of rhetoric: the speaker, the audience, and the speech itself. Aristotle's work not only explores the theory behind effective communication...

Letters from a Stoic by Seneca is a timeless philosophical work that dives deep into the heart and mind of one of Ancient Rome's greatest thinkers. Through a collection of epistolary writings, Seneca, the eminent Stoic philosopher, shares his wisdom and insights on how to lead a meaningful and virtuous life. These letters, originally penned to his friend Lucilius, discuss...

The Architecture of Happiness by Alain de Botton is a captivating exploration into the profound impact that architecture and interior design have on our emotions and well-being. In this thought-provoking work, de Botton delves into the philosophical and psychological connections we form with our living spaces, examining how the aesthetics of our surroundings influence our happiness and contentment. De Botton...

A user's guide to rationality during an epidemic of unreason In the twenty-first century, humanity is reaching new heights of scientific understanding—and at the same time appears to be losing its mind. How can a species that discovered vaccines for Covid-19 in less than a year produce so much fake news, quack cures, and conspiracy theorising? In Rationality, Pinker rejects...

This second of two parts concentrates on Descartes' work on the nature and limits of human knowledge and the methods by which we can hope to acquire knowledge. It also includes the first seven chapters of The World and a selection of Descartes' correspondence and replies to his critics. The first volume (0-14-04470-1) focuses on Descartes' Meditations.

Children are, in many ways, born philosophers. Without prompting, they ask some of the largest questions: about time, mortality, happiness, and the meaning of it all. Yet sadly, too often, this inborn curiosity is not developed, and with age, the questions fall away. Big Ideas for Curious Minds is a book designed to harness children's spontaneous philosophical instinct and to...

One of the foremost Marxist critics of his generation forcefully argues against Marx's irrelevancy. "Reading a book by Terry Eagleton is like watching fireworks."—Dennis O'Brien, Christian Century "[Eagleton is] a witty, insightful thinker with a penchant for glib asides and wry dashes of humour. It’s probably the only book that makes references to Tiger Woods and Mel Gibson along with...

An engaging, highly illustrated introduction to enjoy alone or encourage debate. Philosophy for Beginners is a way of thinking about just about anything. It asks big questions, such as "how can I be good?" or "what makes something beautiful?" Using lively examples, humorous illustrations, and simple thought experiments, this book opens up the world of philosophy to children and adults...

Timaeus and Critias holds a central place in Western thought and is best known to many for the story of Atlantis. Timaeus and Critias is a Socratic dialogue in two parts. A response to an account of an ideal state told by Socrates, it begins with Timaeus's theoretical exposition of the cosmos and his story describing the creation of the...

Lawyer, philosopher, statesman, and defender of Rome's Republic, Cicero was a master of eloquence. His pure literary and oratorical style, coupled with a strict sense of morality, have exerted a powerful influence on European literature and thought for over two thousand years, particularly in matters of politics, philosophy, and faith. Selected Works showcases the diversity of Cicero's writings. It includes...

Seen as the original Existentialist, Kierkegaard transformed philosophy with his conviction that we must all create our own nature. Fear and Trembling, his great work of religious anxiety portraying Abraham's sacrifice of his son Isaac, argues that true understanding can only be attained by making a personal 'leap of faith'. In Fear and Trembling, Søren Kierkegaard's infamous and controversial work...

The Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle is an essential work that has shaped Western thought on ethical theory. In this comprehensive treatise, Aristotle delves into the fundamental questions of human existence and behaviour, presenting a rational approach to understanding what it means to lead a fulfilling life. Central to the text is the concept that happiness, or eudaimonia, is the ultimate...

Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, translated by Robin Waterfield, offers readers an intimate glimpse into the mind of one of Rome's greatest emperors. Known as the philosopher-king, Marcus Aurelius articulates his deepest thoughts and insights, revealing the timeless wisdom that has made Meditations a cornerstone of Stoic philosophy. The book illuminates the emperor's reflections on life, duty, and virtue, encapsulated in...

Maori Philosophy by Dr. Georgina Stewart offers readers a profound exploration into the rich and intricate philosophical traditions of the Indigenous peoples of Aotearoa, New Zealand. This captivating book delves into the symbolic systems, worldviews, and core philosophical issues pivotal to Maori thought, such as the notions of the self, the world, and epistemology. In doing so, it seeks to...

Delve into the revolutionary thinking of one of the 20th century's most provocative and influential philosophers with The Foucault Reader. This essential compilation offers a comprehensive introduction to Michel Foucault’s pioneering work, meticulously curated to provide readers with insightful access to his seminal texts and theories. The Foucault Reader features detailed excerpts from Foucault's richly textured historical studies, including his...

Early Greek Philosophy by Jonathan Barnes is a compelling anthology that delves into the very roots of Western philosophical thought. This volume brings together the seminal works of the Pre-Socratic philosophers, whose innovative and bold ideas laid the groundwork for the intellectual developments of Plato, Aristotle, and their successors. The thinkers featured in Early Greek Philosophy are renowned not just...

Aristotle's De Anima (On the Soul) is a seminal work that delves into the profound and intricate nature of the soul, exploring its defining characteristics and functions. Aristotle embarks on a comprehensive examination of living organisms, scrutinising their myriad behaviours, sensory capabilities, and perceptual depth. His quest is to establish a cohesive theory of the soul that integrates the principles...

In late 1888, only weeks before his final collapse into madness, Nietzsche embarked on the task of composing his autobiography. Ecce Homo remains one of the most intriguing and bizarre examples of the genre ever written. This extraordinary work traces Nietzsche's life, work, and evolution as a philosopher, presenting an intimate portrait of the man behind some of philosophy's most...

A Treatise of Human Nature is David Hume's seminal work, where he embarks on an expansive exploration of the complexities of human psychology and the ways in which our minds navigate the world. The book is divided into three parts: the understanding, the passions, and morals, each addressing critical inquiries into human cognition, emotion, and conduct. Published in 1739-40 when...

Answering life's big questions for little children, this board book explains Socrates' beliefs about truth in a simple, accessible way. Even little children can become philosophers by asking big questions about the world around them. Socrates believed that telling the truth and living a life full of wonder can make us wise. In Truth with Socrates, this idea is explained...

From one of America’s most brilliant writers, a New York Times bestselling journey through psychology, philosophy, and lots of meditation to show how Buddhism holds the key to moral clarity and enduring happiness. At the heart of Buddhism is a simple claim: The reason we suffer—and the reason we make other people suffer—is that we don’t see the world clearly....

In what many consider to be his masterwork, Evola contrasts the characteristics of the modern world with those of traditional societies, from politics and institutions to views on life and death.

The practical guide to applying Stoicism to our daily lives. The answers to our daily worries and anxieties – big or small – lie at the heart of Stoic philosophy. Live Like a Stoic is the essential guide to help us live the good life. It offers a year-long programme of 52 weekly exercises aimed at mastering an array of...

Regarded as the founder of Neo-Platonism, Plotinus (AD 204-270) was the last great philosopher of antiquity, producing works that proved in many ways a precursor to Renaissance thought. Plotinus was convinced of the existence of a state of supreme perfection and argued powerfully that it was necessary to guide the human soul towards this state. Here he outlines his compelling...

In What Money Can't Buy, Michael Sandel asks: Isn't there something wrong with a world in which everything is for sale? And how do we protect the things that really matter? What Money Can't Buy is the Top Ten Sunday Times Bestseller from 'the superstar philosopher', Michael Sandel. Should we financially reward children for good marks? Is it ethical to...

Pensees are the unfinished notes which the French mathematician and physicist, Blaise Pascal (1623-1662), jotted down in preparation for a reasoned defence of Christian belief. They display a vision of humanity's weakness and the futility of worldly life. Whether his subject is the human heart or the famous wager of faith, Pascal writes with a blend of lucidity and eloquence....

A new edition of the multi-million bestselling global phenomenon Ikigai for the personal development market. AVAILABLE NOW - The Four-Way Path, a guide to how Indian spirituality holds the key to a life of happiness and purpose - the new book from the bestselling authors of Ikigai. THE MULTI-MILLION-COPY BESTSELLER Find purpose, meaning and joy in your work and life....

The teachings of Stoic philosophy began and thrived in the Greek and Roman world until the 3rd century AD, and have since experienced multiple revivals right up to the modern day. With wise lessons in key philosophical subjects, from Acceptance and Change to Virtue and Cooperation with Nature, there is much that we can learn from the writings of the...

An urgent and masterly exploration of freedom by the acclaimed, bestselling author of On Tyranny. A brilliant exploration of freedom—what it is, how it's been misunderstood, and why it's our only chance for survival—by the acclaimed, bestselling author of On Tyranny. Freedom is the great Western commitment, but we have lost sight of what it means—and this is leading us...

This fresh, contemporary translation of The Art of War by Sun Tzu is tailored for the 21st century reader. While rooted in its historical significance, this immortal classic remains one of the most influential works in both political and business strategies today. The text transcends its original context as a military manual to serve as a comprehensive guide for leadership,...

Society Must Be Defended by Michel Foucault is a compelling examination of power structures within civilisation, delivered through a series of influential lectures at the Collège de France in 1975-76. Foucault utilizes the paradigm of war to dissect and scrutinise power relations, proposing the provocative thesis that politics is essentially an extension of violence prevalent on the battlefield. Through his...

The History of Sexuality: Volume 2 by Michel Foucault delves deeper into the complex interplay of desire, sex, and power in historical contexts. Originally released as The Use of Pleasure, this volume shifts focus from the repression hypothesis explored in the first volume, moving instead towards an examination of how sexual behaviours and desires have been shaped and perceived throughout...

Explore the profound philosophical insights of one of history’s most influential thinkers with The Republic and Other Works by Plato. This comprehensive compilation brings together some of Plato's most significant dialogues, presenting a masterclass in classical Greek philosophy. In The Republic, Plato explores the nature of justice, the characteristics of the just society, and the education required to create such...

Basic Writings of Nietzsche by Friedrich Nietzsche is a comprehensive collection that captures the essence of one of the most provocative and influential philosophers of the 19th century. This meticulously edited volume by renowned scholar Walter Kaufmann includes the complete texts of five seminal works that have had a profound impact on modern literature and thought. Nietzsche's writings delve deep...

Discover the fascinating world of Stoicism in this beginner's guide to a great and unageing philosophy. The ancient art of Stoicism was founded in Greece during the fourth century BCE, and it is still as relevant today as ever before. With the virtues of wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice at its core, it's little wonder that many people are turning...