Top Books to Introduce Yourself to Philosophy: A Comprehensive Guide

Embarking on a journey into philosophy can be enriching. This multidisciplinary field of study delves into the most fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, reality, reason, and value. Whether you're a self-publishing enthusiast looking to expand your knowledge or someone interested in exploring the core concerns and methods of philosophical inquiry, this guide will suggest some of the best books that will help you get started.

Embarking on a Journey into Philosophy

Philosophy is a complex field that can be daunting for newcomers. It involves not so much the study of objects as it does ideas. Unlike empirical sciences that deal with physical phenomena, philosophy deals with abstract concepts that are often intangible and difficult to grapple with. This makes philosophy challenging yet rewarding. As philosopher Bertrand Russell once said, 'Thought is in many ways synonymous with fighting while blindfolded.' However, by starting with accessible classics, you can unravel the mysteries of this fascinating discipline.

Accessible Classics for Novices

There are several excellent books that serve as excellent introductions to philosophy. They cover a wide range of philosophical traditions and topics, from metaphysics and epistemology to ethics and political philosophy. Some of the most recommended books include:

1. Sophie’s World by Jostein Gaarder

Start with this engaging and entertaining read. Sophie’s World is a novel disguised as a non-fiction introduction to the history of Western philosophy. Written in a narrative style, it features a teenage girl named Sophie who receives strange letters offering a lesson in philosophy. The book is easy to read, entertaining, and uses self-referencing in the form of dramatic irony, making it highly appealing for readers who are not already immersed in the subject matter. Gaarder’s work serves as a perfect introduction to the wonders of philosophical inquiry for beginners.

2. The Story of Philosophy by Will Durant

If you’re looking for something a bit more academic, The Story of Philosophy by Will Durant is an excellent choice. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the major philosophers and their contributions to Western philosophy throughout history. Durant’s narrative style makes complex philosophical concepts accessible and engaging, making it an ideal read for those interested in a more detailed exploration of philosophical traditions.

Starting with Greek Philosophy

Greek philosophy is a good starting point for understanding the foundations of Western thought. The Greeks are often credited with being the first to systematically study and discuss philosophical questions about the nature of reality, knowledge, and ethics. Therefore, any reader new to philosophy should begin with an introduction to Greek philosophy. There are several books that can serve as an excellent starting point:

1. An Introduction to Philosophy by Bertrand Russell

This classic text by Bertrand Russell is a must-read for anyone interested in philosophy. It covers the basics of philosophical inquiry and provides a clear and concise explanation of key concepts. While more academic in tone, this book is an excellent foundation for understanding the core concerns of philosophy.

2. Sophists and Socrates edited by Christopher Moore

For a deeper dive into the early Greek philosophers, Sophists and Socrates offers a collection of primary texts and secondary analysis. This book is ideal for those who want to explore the dialogues and ideas of Socrates and other early Greek philosophers in their original form, providing a rich understanding of the philosophical methods and arguments.

Embarking on Self-Publishing: The Secret to Success

After reading these introductory philosophy books, you might be inspired to try your hand at self-publishing. The process of self-publishing can be straightforward but requires careful planning. Based on my experience of publishing over 200 books on Amazon and running millions of ads, the key to success lies in breaking down the steps into manageable tasks.

The Self-Publishing Secret Checklist

Here are the essential steps to ensure a successful self-publishing journey:

Choose your genre and target audience. Develop a compelling book idea and outline. Publish your book on Amazon and other platforms. Create and run ads to promote your book. Engage with your audience through social media and marketing. Analyze your book's performance and adjust your strategy.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of success in the competitive world of self-publishing. Remember, the key is consistency and perseverance.

Conclusion

Introducing yourself to philosophy can be a transformative experience. Whether you start with a novel like Sophie’s World, a comprehensive history like The Story of Philosophy, or one of the many introductory books on the subject, you will be well on your way to understanding the core concerns and methods of philosophical inquiry. And if you find yourself eager to share your knowledge through self-publishing, remember that with a bit of planning and effort, you can achieve success in this field as well.