Titoli in Filosofia

De Cive, or On the Citizen, stands as one of Thomas Hobbess most significant works. Originally published in Latin in Paris in 1642, it saw two additional editions in Latin from Amsterdam in 1647, followed by its first English translation in 1651 under the title Philosophicall rudiments concerning government and society. This foundational text not only sets the stage for the themes explored in Hobbess more famous work, Leviathan, but it also introduces the iconic phrase bellum omnium contra omnes, or war of all against all. Join us as we delve into Hobbess insights that continue to resonate in ...

In this insightful volume published in 1861, John Stuart Mill presents a compelling argument in favor of representative governance. He explores the most effective forms of government, detailing when representative systems are beneficial and when they may falter. Mill emphasizes the essential functions of representative bodies, while cautioning against potential pitfalls. He skillfully differentiates between genuine and misguided democracy, and delves into critical topics such as voting processes, the role of a second chamber in Parliament, and the functioning of an executive branch. Join Bill ...

In Book of Life, the renowned novelist, essayist, and playwright Upton Sinclair shares his most cherished insights on faith, reason, love, virtue, morality, and mortality. These two thought-provoking volumes are filled with his kind and witty advice that invites readers to reflect and discover wisdom that resonates across generations. Prepare to be both challenged and enlightened with each turn of the page. (Summary by Rom Maczka)

In Man of Genius, renowned criminologist, anthropologist, and psychiatrist Dr. Lombroso delves into the intriguing notion that genius may be intertwined with degenerative traits, potentially bordering on insanity. He presents his groundbreaking and provocative theory, suggesting that historys most creative and imaginative figures often exhibit what he calls atavistic symptoms—defects reminiscent of those seen in the mentally unwell. Drawing from a diverse array of sources, including autopsy reports, biographical studies, and the impact of environmental factors on creativity, Lombrosos ...

As Russia enters into war with Japan, Tolstoy calls upon individuals from every stratum of society—ranging from the Tsar to the common soldier—to reflect on their actions through the lens of Christs teachings. He asserts that the key to liberating humanity from the self-inflicted suffering and the horrors of war lies not in grand external solutions, but through a profound personal introspection. Nearly two thousand years ago, Jesus challenged each person to ask themselves who am I, why do I live, and what should I do or avoid? Join us as we explore this powerful message.

William James (1842 – 1910) was a groundbreaking American psychologist and philosopher whose work has left a lasting impact on the fields of psychology, education, and spirituality. His influential writings explore the intricacies of the human experience, touching on themes of pragmatism, religious experience, and mysticism. Essays in Radical Empiricism is a thought-provoking collection of his essays, carefully curated and published posthumously in 1912 by his colleague and biographer, Ralph Barton Perry. This compilation brings together a series of journal articles that James penned between...

Join us as we explore the profound relationship between our perspective and the natural world, specifically through the lens of the ocean. The discussion delves into the tension between appreciation and scientific explanation. On one hand, viewing the ocean with gratitude reveals its beauty beyond mere chemical elements, while on the other, a physical approach offers insights into the mechanics of waves and hydrodynamics. This episode examines how our understanding shifts depending on our viewpoint, highlighting that while physics can guide our calculations, it may obscure the deeper meaning ...

Prentice Mulford played a pivotal role in the emergence of the influential philosophy known as New Thought, alongside renowned thinkers like Ralph Waldo Emerson. His seminal work, Thoughts are Things, serves as a foundational guide to this transformative belief system and continues to inspire readers today. (Summary by Wikipedia)

Dive into the profound thoughts of French philosopher René Descartes in Six Metaphysical Meditations. Known for his famous declaration Cogito, ergo sum or I think, therefore I exist, Descartes invites you to explore six essential themes where he meticulously unpacks his reasoning. Each meditation not only showcases his insights but also addresses the objections raised by Thomas Hobbes, along with Descartes compelling responses. The meditations cover topics such as the nature of the mind, the existence of God, the essence of truth and falsehood, and the distinction between mind and body. Join ...

Dive into The Art of Controversy (or The Art of Being Right) (Die Kunst, Recht zu Behalten), a thought-provoking treatise penned by German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer in 1831. In this insightful work, Schopenhauer unveils thirty-eight strategies designed to give you an edge in arguments, allowing you to triumph in debate—even when you’re not in the right. He advocates for the importance of dialectical reasoning, which he believes has been overlooked in favor of pure logic. Schopenhauer also explores the divide between our conscious intellect and our underlying will. This classic text ...

The Age of Reason; Being an Investigation of True and Fabulous Theology is a thought-provoking pamphlet penned by the revolutionary Thomas Paine, who played a pivotal role in both British and American history. This groundbreaking work confronts institutionalized religion and questions the legitimacy of the Bible, the cornerstone of Christianity. Originally published in three parts between 1794 and 1807, it quickly became a bestseller in the United States, sparking a brief revival of Deism. In Part 1, written in 1793, Paine boldly critiques the ideas of divine revelation and inspiration, urging...

Step back into the Court of Liang around 300 B.C., where philosophers were honored guests of the reigning king, enjoying lodging and sustenance as they pursued truth and wisdom. While the origins of Yang Chu remain a mystery, his choice to settle in the Wei State during King Hwei’s reign is well noted. Here, he lived as a modest proprietor until his death around 250 B.C. Imagine a life reminiscent of Epicurus in his renowned Athenian Garden, where the philosopher of pleasure and contentment welcomed students and disciples for enlightening discourses. These discussions, much like those in ...

Dive into John Lockes profound exploration of human understanding, where he tackles the intriguing question What gives rise to ideas in our minds? In the first book, Locke boldly challenges the concept of innate ideas, engaging with rationalist claims that are often taken as universal truths. The second book delves deeper into the mechanisms of sensation, reflection, perception, and retention, unveiling how these elements contribute to the formation of simple ideas. Locke then illustrates how various modes, substances, and relationships among simple ideas culminate in the creation of complex ...

In Conquest of Bread, Kropotkin critically examines the flawed economic systems of feudalism and capitalism, arguing that they perpetuate poverty and scarcity while favoring the privileged few. He advocates for a decentralized economic model rooted in mutual aid and voluntary cooperation, suggesting that the foundations for such an organization already exist in both evolution and human society. Join us as we explore his revolutionary ideas and the potential for a more equitable future.

Dive into the profound thoughts of the esteemed philosopher and polymath, Leibniz, in this concise yet impactful treatise on metaphysics. Here, he explores the intricate relationship between God and universal order, delves into the essence of individual substances—including spirits—and examines the connection between the soul and the physical body. Engaging with the ideas of previous scholastic thinkers and even Plato, Leibniz tackles complex themes such as free will, sin in the light of Gods omniscience, and critiques Descartes interpretations within the context of physical laws. He ...

Dive into the world of Theosophy with this enlightening book that lays the groundwork for a lifelong exploration of spiritual wisdom. Rooted in ancient knowledge, Theosophy teaches us that humanity, nature, and the universe are intricately interconnected. It is not merely a religion bound by dogma, but a profound science and philosophy that reveals the natural laws governing existence and the harmony that pervades the cosmos. Through the insights of Rogers, we uncover the reasons behind our connection to the divine, the evolution of the soul, the concept of rebirth, and the mystery of our ...

Dive into a delightful blend of humor and insight with Bennetts timeless collection of articles. He shares his reflections on mental exercise, life organization, the complexities of marriage, and various pocket philosophies. Nearly a century after its original publication, this book remains relevant and entertaining, offering a fresh perspective on enduring topics. Notably, Bennett references An Essay on the Principle of Population by Thomas Malthus in Chapter 5, which is also available as a Librivox recording. (Summary by Ruth Golding)

On the Bondage of the Will, or De Servo Arbitrio in Latin, is a pivotal work by Martin Luther published in December 1525. This powerful treatise serves as Luthers response to Desiderius Erasmuss challenge in his work, De libero arbitrio diatribe sive collatio (On Free Will), which had been released just a year earlier. The crux of their debate revolves around a fundamental question are human beings truly free to choose between good and evil after the Fall of Man? This exchange between Luther and Erasmus marks one of the earliest and most significant discussions of the Reformation, delving deep...

Dive into the profound insights of Henri Bergson in An Introduction to Metaphysics (Introduction a la Metaphysique), a thought-provoking essay published in 1903. Bergson challenges the conventional understanding of reality, suggesting that it is not a collection of isolated moments but a continuous flow, reminiscent of the ideas of the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus. He argues that true comprehension of reality transcends mere analytical reductionism, which merely skims the surface by viewing objects from various, limited perspectives. Instead, Bergson advocates for an intuitive approach...

Dive into the rich landscape of early 20th Century American philosophy with this compelling collection of essays that explore realism, experience, and ideas. Central to this anthology is the pragmatic naturalism of John Dewey. In tracks 1-5, Dewey engages directly with critics of his influential piece, “The Postulate of Immediate Empiricism” (also featured in Short Nonfiction Collection Vol.034). Tracks 6-12 present a series of dynamic debates between Dewey and E. B. McGilvary, tackling profound questions about time, ideas, and the very nature of reality. Rounding out the collection, ...