Examined Lives

Twelve Great Thinkers and the Search for Wisdom, from Socrates to Nietzsche

By: Prof. James Miller

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Paperback | 1 March 2018

At a Glance

Paperback
432 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
19.6 x 12.9 x 3.2

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Before the good life was reduced to a bottle of Prozac, it was philosophers who offered answers to the most fundamental questions about who we are and how to live well. In Examined Lives, James Miller returns to this vibrant tradition with short and spirited biographies of twelve famous thinkers, examining the interplay of their life and thought. From Plato, who risked his reputation to tutor a tyrant, to Kant, who wrestled with hypochondria while advocating arch-rationality in his writings, each thinker took their own unique approach to 'the good life', but often struggled to put their theories into practice.

With a flair for rich anecdote, Miller provides a captivating insight into some of history's greatest thinkers – and confirms the continuing relevance of philosophy today.

About the Author

James Miller is professor of politics and liberal studies, and faculty director of the MA in creative publishing and critical journalism at the New School for Social Research. He lives in New York.

Industry Reviews

'A vivid set of philosophical tales...a fresh treatment of subjects who are often served up stale.' * The Economist *
'A set of beautifully written and richly informative mini-biographies of a dozen philosophers... Each of them is a little gem in its own right.' * A. C. Grayling *
'Fascinating...readers will be astounded to learn that philosophers make as much of a mess of their lives as anyone else.' * New York Times *
'Admirable...his book gains a novelistic richness.' * Guardian *
'An engaging wealth of personal detail woven into each philosopher's quest for wisdom... Refreshing...an ideal book to dip into before another night of sleepless worry.' * Prospect *
'Crisply written and insightful.' * Sunday Telegraph *
'Endlessly rich... An earnest, wistful collection of biographical sketches of a dozen preeminent "lovers of wisdom".' * Wall Street Journal *
'Miller's accessible history is entertaining and informative.' * Sunday Herald *
'Excellent.' * Alain de Botton, New Statesman *
'Pitch-perfect...Miller's prose is insightful, anecdotal, warm, and nuanced.' * Irish Times *
'Relevant, interesting, and accessible...Miller's deep knowledge of his subject is matched by a passion to share what he knows with others.' * Scotsman *
'Beautifully written, full of anecdotes and interesting historical facts, this is an inspiring read.' * Good Book Guide *

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