Sarah
asked
Jo Walton:
Hi! I've been enjoying your Thessaly series and it has inspired me to learn more about philosophy. Other than the Republic, where would you suggest a person start? Or just jump in somewhere?
Jo Walton
Plato is very readable. But there's a problem -- the problem that's causing you to ask me this question -- with "Ha, philosophy is cool, and I am an intelligent adult, but I know nothing and there's so much of it and where do I start?"
I'd start with the Sketches for a History of Skepticism on Ex Urbe (http://www.exurbe.com) and then read Peter Gay's 2 volume history of Enlightenment thought. I also commend to your attention Existentialist Comics (http://existentialcomics.com/) and especially the "didn't get the joke" section -- I can't think of a more fun way to get a general understanding of philosophy to go on from.
I'd start with the Sketches for a History of Skepticism on Ex Urbe (http://www.exurbe.com) and then read Peter Gay's 2 volume history of Enlightenment thought. I also commend to your attention Existentialist Comics (http://existentialcomics.com/) and especially the "didn't get the joke" section -- I can't think of a more fun way to get a general understanding of philosophy to go on from.
More Answered Questions
Sirana
asked
Jo Walton:
Your writing both on Petrarch and Pico della Mirandola has given me a nudge to finally learn more about the Renaissance. What would you consider the best introduction for somebody who basically has only school knowledge of the period? I am looking for some broad overview that I can use as a jumping off point to delve deeper into specific issues. I don't mind dry or scholarly language.
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more