Non-fiction - Popular Philosophy - Christchurch City Libraries
Have you ever tried to pick up philosophy and quickly retreated, daunted by the heavy narrative style, and the fact your head is about to explode from confusion? Fear not, as these popular philosophy books will quickly get you up to speed. Meet major philosophers from around the world, and have daunting philosophical theories from the ancients to modern day explained in an entertaining and, yes, even humorous, way. These writers prove that philosophy can help you get meaning from life. A Christchurch City Libraries list.
Pirsig narrates a father-son summer motorcycle trip across America while comparing two viewpoints, rationality and romanticism, illustrated throughout the trip. This is a story of philosophy and growth, of tackling life’s questions including the…
In this concise yet engaging introduction, Edward Craig, editor of the Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy, distills centuries of philosophical thought into an accessible guide for newcomers. From Plato to Nietzsche, and even Darwin, the book…
In this concise yet engaging introduction, Edward Craig, editor of the Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy, distills centuries of philosophical thought into an accessible guide for newcomers. From Plato to Nietzsche, and even Darwin, the book…
Spanning experiences from eastern and western philosophies and religions, fifteen philosophers bring you their thoughts on how they found meaning in their lives through their chosen philosophy. From the Art of War by Sun Tzu to Thomas Jefferson’s…
In a sweeping exploration of global philosophy, this book reveals that Western thought is just one piece of a much larger puzzle. By delving into the philosophies of China, India, Japan, the Islamic world and beyond, Baggini broadens our…
This insightful book offers a groundbreaking exploration of Indigenous thinking from Aotearoa, blending Māori worldviews with modern philosophy. It challenges Western philosophical frameworks, highlighting the unique epistemologies and ontologies of…
Placing philosophers in their historical context De Botton explains how their views relate to each other and their times, and yet remain relevant to us today. He does this by relating six consolations for life’s challenges; interspersing historical…
A timeless collection of personal reflections from the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius, this book offers profound wisdom on how to live with dignity, resilience and purpose. Rooted in Stoic philosophy, the Meditations remind us to focus on what we can…
"A profound exploration of modernity’s impact on human life, politics and action, this work distinguishes between labor, work and action while emphasizing the importance of political engagement and collective effort in a world increasingly focused…
Michael Schur offers a relatable introduction to ethics and moral philosophy, but, as with everything he does, he also wants to make you laugh. Best known as the creator of TV shows 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' and 'Parks and Recreation', Schur turned to…
"Can philosophy be your guide to a more meaningful life?" This engaging and accessible book invites readers to tackle life's biggest questions - faith, happiness and purpose - through the lens of virtue ethics. Drawing on thinkers like Aristotle and…
This provocative exploration shatters the comforting illusion of free will, arguing that our choices are biologically and environmentally determined. Blending neuroscience, psychology and philosophy, Sapolsky meticulously dismantles traditional…
In a world on the brink of environmental collapse, Rieder asks a pressing question: how can we live ethically when individual actions seem futile? With sharp philosophical insight, he challenges conventional thinking, urging us to rethink our moral…
