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The Little Book of Philosophy
In twelve concise essays, Comte-Sponville, a Professor of Philosophy at the Sorbonne, introduces twelve central philosophical concepts in the terms that we all use the words, and in which philosophers from Plato and Aristotle onwards have explored them.
158 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2000
56 people are currently reading
505 people want to read
About the author
André Comte-Sponville
123 books272 followersAndré Comte-Sponville, philosophe matérialiste, rationaliste et humaniste, est né à Paris, en 1952. Ancien élève de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure de la rue d'Ulm, agrégé de philosophie, docteur de troisième cycle, il est aussi Docteur Honoris Causa de l'Université de Mons-Hainaut, en Belgique.
André Comte-Sponville fut maître de conférences à la Sorbonne1 (Université Paris I) jusqu'en 1998, date depuis laquelle il se consacre exclusivement à l'écriture et aux conférences qu'il donne en dehors de l'Université.
André Comte-Sponville est membre du Comité Consultatif National d'Ethique depuis mars 2008.
André Comte-Sponville a souvent été invité sur les plateaux télévisés, notamment chez Michel Polac, Bernard Pivot, Guillaume Durand, Frédéric Ferney, Christine Ockrent, Patrick Poivre d'Arvor et Serge Moati.
André Comte-Sponville fut maître de conférences à la Sorbonne1 (Université Paris I) jusqu'en 1998, date depuis laquelle il se consacre exclusivement à l'écriture et aux conférences qu'il donne en dehors de l'Université.
André Comte-Sponville est membre du Comité Consultatif National d'Ethique depuis mars 2008.
André Comte-Sponville a souvent été invité sur les plateaux télévisés, notamment chez Michel Polac, Bernard Pivot, Guillaume Durand, Frédéric Ferney, Christine Ockrent, Patrick Poivre d'Arvor et Serge Moati.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 5, 2019
030218 from 060513: later addition (6 years): well giving this to Natasha... she is taking first year philosophy... so i read this again: with the same pleasure in recall. for the idea of showing 'how' to philosophize, the joy, the truth, the path of philosophical thought- ah, to not yet know this but discover it for the first time! and here, is this not the way to learn, in this text so full of questions, provoking or enabling the reader to discover their own way to wisdom...? for learning can be through others but wisdom is always your own...
first review: this is a book i would give to someone who knows nothing of but is interested in philosophy. written for adolescents, this does not make his chapters, his titles, his own thoughts, simple or banal. rather than a list of philosophers or ideas to read, this describes and shows the act of philosophizing. the essential pleasure of thought. short, concise, easy to read...
first review: this is a book i would give to someone who knows nothing of but is interested in philosophy. written for adolescents, this does not make his chapters, his titles, his own thoughts, simple or banal. rather than a list of philosophers or ideas to read, this describes and shows the act of philosophizing. the essential pleasure of thought. short, concise, easy to read...
June 15, 2017
I was a little bit afraid when I saw the book for the first time. The reason was, that I could not imagine how it can cover philosophy in its complexity in few pages; and not only this for the areas: ethics, politics, love, death, knowledge, freedom, god, atheism, art, time, humanity and wisdom are so large in depth and width that to analyse and reflect them, seemed almost impossible!
I was wrong. At the beginning, Mr Compte-Sponville said that he is not going to use a difficult philosophical language for the book is dedicated to young people, children. In that moment, the book Sophie´s world popped in my mind and I remembered how awesome the book was - also for its accessible language and narrative. The aim is, to make philosophy practical and useful, to present it as a tool which we can freely and boundlessly use anytime: for pleasure or for self-knowing (look back at the areas analysed in the book...).
For me, it was a gate behind which I have found a new world, or let say a multi perspective and coloured world described by simple words. The author assess each area from different point of view, mentioning various philosophers who dealt with the area so reader can compare, think, meditate and decide which opinion fit with him/her. And this ride has been awesome, challenging and provoking, forcing you to think - and that is the main aim of the book: to think, to enjoy thinking, to challenge your ideas and world views. The author is not bothering us with not understandable theories and details, but he works with the core philosophical essences in easy way - it looks almost like a joke, but it is not.
I am going to use this book as a teaching accessory material; each chapter can be use separately and effectively dealing with problems students usually want to discuss. Plus, for me as a TOK teacher in IB program this book is a deep well of inspiration and knowledge.
So if you are interested in the aforementioned topics, do not waste your time and take this book.
I was wrong. At the beginning, Mr Compte-Sponville said that he is not going to use a difficult philosophical language for the book is dedicated to young people, children. In that moment, the book Sophie´s world popped in my mind and I remembered how awesome the book was - also for its accessible language and narrative. The aim is, to make philosophy practical and useful, to present it as a tool which we can freely and boundlessly use anytime: for pleasure or for self-knowing (look back at the areas analysed in the book...).
For me, it was a gate behind which I have found a new world, or let say a multi perspective and coloured world described by simple words. The author assess each area from different point of view, mentioning various philosophers who dealt with the area so reader can compare, think, meditate and decide which opinion fit with him/her. And this ride has been awesome, challenging and provoking, forcing you to think - and that is the main aim of the book: to think, to enjoy thinking, to challenge your ideas and world views. The author is not bothering us with not understandable theories and details, but he works with the core philosophical essences in easy way - it looks almost like a joke, but it is not.
I am going to use this book as a teaching accessory material; each chapter can be use separately and effectively dealing with problems students usually want to discuss. Plus, for me as a TOK teacher in IB program this book is a deep well of inspiration and knowledge.
So if you are interested in the aforementioned topics, do not waste your time and take this book.
November 7, 2015
A Very Comprehensive Book About some Important Topics In Philosophy!
August 25, 2021
Ensayo, de naturaleza didáctica, que aborda la historia de las ideas filosóficas desde los griegos, que comenzaron a estudiarla, su evolución a través del tiempo y las diversas corrientes que jalonaron su historia.
September 24, 2018
Sponville was recommended to me by a very good friend, a poet and writer. My background is in philosophy. This book was actually bought by mistake. However, it turned out to be a good read. Sponville is an excellent writer from a literary standpoint and presents philosophical concepts in a clear but general way. The book's chapters begin with a common philosophical topic, ethics, and hits upon a few of the five pillars of philosophy, leaving out logic. From a literary standpoint this is understandable, but from a philosophical standpoint, I think, a bit of a mistake.
The chapters read more like thoughts on general topics and offer up what seems like rhetorical questions rather than statements concerning the topics themselves. Early on, Sponville writes "philosophy is not a science, nor is it wisdom, nor even knowledge: it is a meditation on what knowledge is available." (45). Beautifully written, but philosophically lacking.
Allusions to several classic philosophical readings are clear, ranging from the Greek philosophers to more modern neo-classical philosophers. However, the original sources are not included in the writings and so it would be easy to believe that the concepts are simply "human" inventions rather than concepts worked out by previous philosophers.
From a philosophical standpoint the book is not one which could be used as a treatise on the topic, but rather it would be a good introduction. The word "Little" in the title is perhaps the key thing to remember here. Writing, "Ethics is valid only for oneself; duty applies only to oneself. For others, compassion and the law are enough. (156), I think Sponville over-claims. Here it seems he is alluding to virtue ethics. However, it is not clear and there are philosophical problems with the statement. Later, he writes "This is a crucial point: to be moral is to submit ourselves to a law which we believe applies, or should apply, to all." (181)
The Little Book of Philosophy is a great starting point for anyone who has ever been interested in but not willing to read philosophical works. The book will introduce one to philosophical ideas but will fall short if the reader is looking for clear and concise terms regarding those ideas.
Beautifully written, but at the expense of clarity and conciseness.
The chapters read more like thoughts on general topics and offer up what seems like rhetorical questions rather than statements concerning the topics themselves. Early on, Sponville writes "philosophy is not a science, nor is it wisdom, nor even knowledge: it is a meditation on what knowledge is available." (45). Beautifully written, but philosophically lacking.
Allusions to several classic philosophical readings are clear, ranging from the Greek philosophers to more modern neo-classical philosophers. However, the original sources are not included in the writings and so it would be easy to believe that the concepts are simply "human" inventions rather than concepts worked out by previous philosophers.
From a philosophical standpoint the book is not one which could be used as a treatise on the topic, but rather it would be a good introduction. The word "Little" in the title is perhaps the key thing to remember here. Writing, "Ethics is valid only for oneself; duty applies only to oneself. For others, compassion and the law are enough. (156), I think Sponville over-claims. Here it seems he is alluding to virtue ethics. However, it is not clear and there are philosophical problems with the statement. Later, he writes "This is a crucial point: to be moral is to submit ourselves to a law which we believe applies, or should apply, to all." (181)
The Little Book of Philosophy is a great starting point for anyone who has ever been interested in but not willing to read philosophical works. The book will introduce one to philosophical ideas but will fall short if the reader is looking for clear and concise terms regarding those ideas.
Beautifully written, but at the expense of clarity and conciseness.
June 9, 2025
I will never grow bored with philosophy books. Philosophy books that are written for mass audiences are no exception. The Little Book of Philosophy is a small book, only 145 pages. But the small size needn’t fool you. The book is profound, asking multiple different questions about different categories. Whether it be questions on what beauty is or whether it is questions on what makes good ethics, the book looks at different parts of philosophy and allows the reader to ask their questions.
There are 12 subjects looked over in this book: ethics, politics, love, death, knowledge, freedom, God, atheism, art, time, humanity and wisdom. Each of these chapters looks over the basics of philosophy and allows the reader to have a brief look a philosophy. Yet, these chapters allow the reader to contemplate the profound questions in the book.
The book is also incredibly well-researched. The bibliography has multiple books cited for each of the chapters, which shows a strong reflection on the subject of philosophy. If I were going to critique this book, I found the chapter on atheism to be somewhat biased, but I do think that, to be all honest, this chapter was written from his point of view and therefore highlights ideas that he believed in.
An amazing introduction to the central part of philosophy, rich in ideas and easy to read.
There are 12 subjects looked over in this book: ethics, politics, love, death, knowledge, freedom, God, atheism, art, time, humanity and wisdom. Each of these chapters looks over the basics of philosophy and allows the reader to have a brief look a philosophy. Yet, these chapters allow the reader to contemplate the profound questions in the book.
The book is also incredibly well-researched. The bibliography has multiple books cited for each of the chapters, which shows a strong reflection on the subject of philosophy. If I were going to critique this book, I found the chapter on atheism to be somewhat biased, but I do think that, to be all honest, this chapter was written from his point of view and therefore highlights ideas that he believed in.
An amazing introduction to the central part of philosophy, rich in ideas and easy to read.
August 1, 2021
A useful if routine run-through of some of the key Western insights into philosophical ideas. Comte-Sponville refers to his short book as "a primer… one among the hundreds of doors into philosophy" (pg. xii) and gives brief, simply-written chapters on abstract ideas like 'Love', 'Knowledge', 'Freedom' and 'Death'. Some ('Ethics', 'Art', 'Humanity') are more thought-provoking than others ('Atheism', 'Time'), but all can be said to be useful first-steps into the topics. I often wanted the author to expand upon them, but recognised this would be beyond the remit of the book.
Comte-Sponville has his own opinions, of course, but he is first and foremost a teacher, and summarises the thinking of great men quite well (Spinoza, Kant and Montaigne seem to be referred to most often). He nevertheless provides the occasional flourish of his own – "What is essential is to prove that we are not unworthy of what humanity has made of itself" (pg. 10) – and the book as a whole is a decent starting-gun into exploration of "the art of reason" that "leads to the art of living" (pg. xv).
Comte-Sponville has his own opinions, of course, but he is first and foremost a teacher, and summarises the thinking of great men quite well (Spinoza, Kant and Montaigne seem to be referred to most often). He nevertheless provides the occasional flourish of his own – "What is essential is to prove that we are not unworthy of what humanity has made of itself" (pg. 10) – and the book as a whole is a decent starting-gun into exploration of "the art of reason" that "leads to the art of living" (pg. xv).
January 29, 2018
(from the synopsis...) "In his brilliant and concise writing on morality, politics, love, death, knowledge, freedom, God, atheism, art, time, Man, and wisdom, he inspires the central question of philosophy - how should we live? - and provides the reader with signposts towards a happier, wiser life."
It is an insightful introduction into the world of Philosophy from André and highly recommended for beginners/students. Western philosophers include Aristotle, Plato, Heidegger, Descartes, Montaigne, Hume and Epicurus.
Although the author is often giving his opinion on all these areas, if I had to be critical, he could of explored more possibilities regarding various conclusions or viewpoints.
It is an insightful introduction into the world of Philosophy from André and highly recommended for beginners/students. Western philosophers include Aristotle, Plato, Heidegger, Descartes, Montaigne, Hume and Epicurus.
Although the author is often giving his opinion on all these areas, if I had to be critical, he could of explored more possibilities regarding various conclusions or viewpoints.
January 20, 2019
It's not that the book itself is badly written or constructed, I quite liked the idea of laying out philosophy according to topic. But I was disappointed at the fact that what lay underneath each heading was not a series of questions that challenge our accepted perspective or offer new perspectives, but instead a series of statements convincing us of a specific view of that topic. It just wasn't 'challenging' or 'deep' enough as I usually find philosophy to be.
Basically it fed me answers instead of stimulating my critical questions.
Basically it fed me answers instead of stimulating my critical questions.
June 9, 2020
Una breve pero muy vasta introducción a la filosofía en general, abarca la mayoría de los campos, o por lo menos los más importantes, que de desarrollan en la filosofía
Cita, menciona y hace énfasis en autores destacados que complementan ideas e información importante de la materia.
No es nada complicado de leer y hace muchísimo más liviano el camino a recorrer en este vasto ámbito que es la filosofía.
Cita, menciona y hace énfasis en autores destacados que complementan ideas e información importante de la materia.
No es nada complicado de leer y hace muchísimo más liviano el camino a recorrer en este vasto ámbito que es la filosofía.
January 2, 2025
Really comprehensive introduction to a wide range of areas in philosophy. I found the discussions of time, death and politics really interesting and also loved how the book referenced the philosophers who had popularised certain ideas and arguments.
Unfortunately, I found some chapters quite slow, obvious, and repetitive, and found it quite hard to motivate myself to read through them at certain points. Probably reflects more on what I am interested in than the quality of book though.
Unfortunately, I found some chapters quite slow, obvious, and repetitive, and found it quite hard to motivate myself to read through them at certain points. Probably reflects more on what I am interested in than the quality of book though.
April 15, 2025
This book was very interesting to read as a teacher considering it for a lesson. I thought of struggles I have had with different student behaviors, positive and negative, and I think that reading a little philosophy could help my students gain perspective. However, like most philosophy, it is hard to follow. The author acknowledged at the beginning that he wrote this book so teenagers could read it but I cannot imagine a teenager easily reading it without the guidance of a teacher.
September 11, 2019
This is one of my favourite books. It is a great introductory book about philosophy. It creates a curiosity. It creates question and asks more than answers. This was one of the few introductory books I had read a year back. This is the only book that stuck with me.
October 3, 2021
Well, I did not finish this book. I am far too old to reading so many words that make so little sense (to me). I know that others hold this book in high regard so I bow to their greater understanding. But once again I find that philosophical reading is just a touch too slippery for me.
October 30, 2021
A bit bland after having taken Intro to Philosophy, but not lacking either. It's just that not many books will be more compelling than discussing philosophy with others.
However, I read the Death chapter twice, and I have to admit I can find myself in the author's view.
However, I read the Death chapter twice, and I have to admit I can find myself in the author's view.
April 29, 2025
“Logos, etc.” yolculuğu, kulübümüzün ana eksenini oluşturan “Akılcılıktan Varoluşçuluğa” kitabına geçmeden önce, felsefi kavrayış ve tarihsel yaklaşımlara girizgâh olması adına, André Comte-Sponville’in "Felsefe Nedir?" adlı eserini konuşmak üzere hepsi birbirinden değerli bilgisever arkadaşların katkısı ve katılımıyla 11 Nisan akşamı başladı.
"Felsefe kimseye ait veya özgü değildir."
Ele aldığı konunun kapsamı ve derinliği dikkate alındığında, görece makul bir hacmi olan “Felsefe Nedir?”, tatmin edici ve ilham veren bir eser.
Felsefenin yalnızca entelektüel bir uğraş olmadığını, aynı zamanda hayatın her anında bize yol gösteren bir düşünce olabileceğini hatırlatan etkileyici bir anlatıma sahip olan "Felsefe Nedir?", bir felsefe tarihi kitabı olmanın ötesine geçiyor.
"Felsefe özgür bir düşüncedir ve hiç durmaz."
Andre Comte-Sponville'in, hem tarihsel, hem de alansal olarak aktarmayı seçtiği kavramlar, kulüp üyeleri arasında, yaşamsal bir uğraş ve meslek olarak felsefe ve düşünceye yönelik kapsamlı tartışmaları filizlendirerek, verimli bir sohbeti mümkün kıldı.
"Başkalarının bilgisiyle bilgin olabilsek bile ancak kendi bilgeliğimizle bilge olabiliriz."
Düşüncenin ve sorgulamanın, yaşamın her alanına nüfuz eden bir gereksinim olduğu şiarıyla hareket eden okurlarımızın beğeniyle karşıladığı kitap, Logos'u arayacağımız ortak yolculuğumuza, çok-anlamlı bir başlangıç yapmamızı sağladı.
"Mutluluk belki yolun sonundadır. Ama yol hakikattir."
"Felsefe nedir?", düşünce ve anlamın, akademik bir disiplinin ötesinde, dünyayı ve kendimizi anlamamız için ne kadar gerekli ve mevcut olduğunu gösterebilen, birçok referansa sahip, özel bir kitap.
"Felsefe Nedir?"i, düşünce dünyasını, önemli tarihsel aşama ve eğilimleri irdeleyerek genişletmek ve kavramlar evrenine giriş yapmak isteyen tüm yetişkin okurlara öneririm.
"Felsefe kimseye ait veya özgü değildir."
Ele aldığı konunun kapsamı ve derinliği dikkate alındığında, görece makul bir hacmi olan “Felsefe Nedir?”, tatmin edici ve ilham veren bir eser.
Felsefenin yalnızca entelektüel bir uğraş olmadığını, aynı zamanda hayatın her anında bize yol gösteren bir düşünce olabileceğini hatırlatan etkileyici bir anlatıma sahip olan "Felsefe Nedir?", bir felsefe tarihi kitabı olmanın ötesine geçiyor.
"Felsefe özgür bir düşüncedir ve hiç durmaz."
Andre Comte-Sponville'in, hem tarihsel, hem de alansal olarak aktarmayı seçtiği kavramlar, kulüp üyeleri arasında, yaşamsal bir uğraş ve meslek olarak felsefe ve düşünceye yönelik kapsamlı tartışmaları filizlendirerek, verimli bir sohbeti mümkün kıldı.
"Başkalarının bilgisiyle bilgin olabilsek bile ancak kendi bilgeliğimizle bilge olabiliriz."
Düşüncenin ve sorgulamanın, yaşamın her alanına nüfuz eden bir gereksinim olduğu şiarıyla hareket eden okurlarımızın beğeniyle karşıladığı kitap, Logos'u arayacağımız ortak yolculuğumuza, çok-anlamlı bir başlangıç yapmamızı sağladı.
"Mutluluk belki yolun sonundadır. Ama yol hakikattir."
"Felsefe nedir?", düşünce ve anlamın, akademik bir disiplinin ötesinde, dünyayı ve kendimizi anlamamız için ne kadar gerekli ve mevcut olduğunu gösterebilen, birçok referansa sahip, özel bir kitap.
"Felsefe Nedir?"i, düşünce dünyasını, önemli tarihsel aşama ve eğilimleri irdeleyerek genişletmek ve kavramlar evrenine giriş yapmak isteyen tüm yetişkin okurlara öneririm.
January 4, 2025
Interesante.
April 13, 2025
Met bien en perspective les évolutions de la pensée.
March 19, 2012
More impressions in my personal blog of reviews
The Reason that distinguishes
There are numerous books with the goal to present the Philosophy: books destinated to the children and teenagers, academic public, those searching for the infamous streak of self-help, until the readers of bestsellers. The Little Book Of Philosophy by André Comte-Sponville can be categorized as academic, targeted to a segment of interest and varied expertise.
Translate the importance, history and purpose of philosophy in succinct 120 pages of content and that, moreover, wishes to be an academic material isn't easy task and Comte-Sponville is aware of the challenge, and alert the unwary reader at all times.
Despite the ungrateful task, a very well written text, the work sounds attractive and inviting presenting the definitions and what actually is the Philosophy in its opening chapter. Establishes it as doctrine,distinct from science, seeking to the (mis)direction of happiness, freedom and truth - this fabulous triad -, in the way to the wisdom and good living. However, when addressing the History of Philosophy and Science,by passing the ancient period, medieval, modern and contemporary, made explicit the limits of the proposed scheme: the brevity of the case makes reading the great authors in this topic, median and bureaucratic.
In the subsequent chapter happens the resumption. When dealing with the Philosophy based on Domains and Chains, Comte-Sponville hits the point searching dissect the contribution of Philosophy in metaphysics, knowledge, ethics and morals, politics, art and humanities. The information is passed briefly, but pierces superficiality.
With the conclusion that Philosophy is a salutary practice in the search for a happy life, The Little Book Of Philosophy , as only it should be, leave an open invitation to the reader: Use and abuse of Philosophy and yours reason, these elements that distinguish man and assist in its infinite and personal search for truth.
***
A Razão que distingue
Existem inúmeros livros com o objetivo de apresentar a Filosofia, do público infanto-juvenil, ao acadêmico e pedagógico, àqueles a procura do famigerado filão da autoajuda, até os leitores de best-sellers. Este A Filosofia, de André Comte-Sponville, da coleção “Mesmo que o céu não exista”, pode ser catalogado como acadêmico, direcionado a um segmento de interesse e expertise variada.
Traduzir a importância, história e finalidade da Filosofia num conteúdo de sucintas 120 páginas e que, além disso, pretenda-se um material acadêmico não é tarefa fácil e Comte-Sponville está cônscio do desafio, e alerta o leitor incauto a todo o momento.
Apesar da missão ingrata, num texto muito bem escrito, o trabalho soa atraente e convidativo apresentando as definições e o que de fato é a Filosofia em seu capítulo inicial. Estabelece-a como doutrina que, distinta da Ciência, busca nos (des)caminhos da felicidade, liberdade e verdade – este fabuloso trinômio –, a sabedoria e o bom viver. Entretanto, ao abordar a História da Filosofia e Ciência, transpassando o período antigo, medieval, moderno e contemporâneo, fica explícito os limites do esquema proposto: a brevidade no tratar dos grandes autores torna a leitura, neste tópico, mediana e burocrática.
No capítulo subseqüente acontece a retomada. Ao tratar da Filosofia com base nos Domínios e Correntes, Comte-Sponville acerta a mão buscando, dissecar contribuição da Filosofia na metafísica, saber, ética e moral, política, arte e ciências humanas. O conteúdo é sucinto, mas não soa superficial.
Com a conclusão de que a Filosofia é uma prática salutar para a busca de uma vida feliz, A Filosofia, como não poderia deixar de ser, deixa um convite em aberto para o seu leitor: Use e abuse do filosofar e da razão, esses elementos que distinguem o homem e o auxiliam em sua infinita e particular busca da verdade.
The Reason that distinguishes
There are numerous books with the goal to present the Philosophy: books destinated to the children and teenagers, academic public, those searching for the infamous streak of self-help, until the readers of bestsellers. The Little Book Of Philosophy by André Comte-Sponville can be categorized as academic, targeted to a segment of interest and varied expertise.
Translate the importance, history and purpose of philosophy in succinct 120 pages of content and that, moreover, wishes to be an academic material isn't easy task and Comte-Sponville is aware of the challenge, and alert the unwary reader at all times.
Despite the ungrateful task, a very well written text, the work sounds attractive and inviting presenting the definitions and what actually is the Philosophy in its opening chapter. Establishes it as doctrine,distinct from science, seeking to the (mis)direction of happiness, freedom and truth - this fabulous triad -, in the way to the wisdom and good living. However, when addressing the History of Philosophy and Science,by passing the ancient period, medieval, modern and contemporary, made explicit the limits of the proposed scheme: the brevity of the case makes reading the great authors in this topic, median and bureaucratic.
In the subsequent chapter happens the resumption. When dealing with the Philosophy based on Domains and Chains, Comte-Sponville hits the point searching dissect the contribution of Philosophy in metaphysics, knowledge, ethics and morals, politics, art and humanities. The information is passed briefly, but pierces superficiality.
With the conclusion that Philosophy is a salutary practice in the search for a happy life, The Little Book Of Philosophy , as only it should be, leave an open invitation to the reader: Use and abuse of Philosophy and yours reason, these elements that distinguish man and assist in its infinite and personal search for truth.
***
A Razão que distingue
Existem inúmeros livros com o objetivo de apresentar a Filosofia, do público infanto-juvenil, ao acadêmico e pedagógico, àqueles a procura do famigerado filão da autoajuda, até os leitores de best-sellers. Este A Filosofia, de André Comte-Sponville, da coleção “Mesmo que o céu não exista”, pode ser catalogado como acadêmico, direcionado a um segmento de interesse e expertise variada.
Traduzir a importância, história e finalidade da Filosofia num conteúdo de sucintas 120 páginas e que, além disso, pretenda-se um material acadêmico não é tarefa fácil e Comte-Sponville está cônscio do desafio, e alerta o leitor incauto a todo o momento.
Apesar da missão ingrata, num texto muito bem escrito, o trabalho soa atraente e convidativo apresentando as definições e o que de fato é a Filosofia em seu capítulo inicial. Estabelece-a como doutrina que, distinta da Ciência, busca nos (des)caminhos da felicidade, liberdade e verdade – este fabuloso trinômio –, a sabedoria e o bom viver. Entretanto, ao abordar a História da Filosofia e Ciência, transpassando o período antigo, medieval, moderno e contemporâneo, fica explícito os limites do esquema proposto: a brevidade no tratar dos grandes autores torna a leitura, neste tópico, mediana e burocrática.
No capítulo subseqüente acontece a retomada. Ao tratar da Filosofia com base nos Domínios e Correntes, Comte-Sponville acerta a mão buscando, dissecar contribuição da Filosofia na metafísica, saber, ética e moral, política, arte e ciências humanas. O conteúdo é sucinto, mas não soa superficial.
Com a conclusão de que a Filosofia é uma prática salutar para a busca de uma vida feliz, A Filosofia, como não poderia deixar de ser, deixa um convite em aberto para o seu leitor: Use e abuse do filosofar e da razão, esses elementos que distinguem o homem e o auxiliam em sua infinita e particular busca da verdade.
November 27, 2015
كومت سبونفيل أحد فلاسفتي المفضلين على الإطلاق
هذا عرض للكتاب كتبته لمشروع مجلة فلسفية تصدر على الإنترنت في عام 2014
سبونفيل يفصل المقال فيما بين الحكمة والفلسفة من اتصال!
الفلسفة - أندريه كومت سبونفيل - ترجمة: د. على بو ملحم - دار نشر: كلمة - 2008
تريد أن تقرأ عن الفلسفة؟ هناك العديد من الكتب التي أستطيع أن أرشحها لك. يمكنك أن تقرأ "عالم صوفي" لجوستاين غاردر إذا أردت رواية أدبية حول تاريخ الفلسفة، أو "ذات مرة دخل أفلاطون وخلد الماء حانة.." لدانيال كلاين وتوماس كاثكارت إذا أردت أن كتابًا طريفًا تفهم منه الفلسفة من خلال النكات، أو "فصول في الفلسفة ومذاهبها" لجود إذا أردت كتابًا كلاسيكيًا في مذاهب الفلسفة، أو "ما هي الفلسفة؟" لجيل دولوز وفليكس غتّاري إذا أردت كتابًا حديثًا عن ماهية الفلسفة. كتاب "الفلسفة" لأندريه كومت سبونفيل يقدم ماهية الفلسفة وتاريخها ومباحثها بصورة موجزة تلائم القارئ المبتدئ.
سبونفيل فيلسوف فرنسي وأستاذ محاضر في جامعة السوربون. ألف عدة كتب من بينها "الحب والوحدة" (1992)، "مقالة قصيرة حول الفضائل العظيمة" (1995)، و"هل الرأسمالية أخلاقية؟" (2004) الذي ترجمه إلى العربية بسام حجار عن دار الساقي.
في مقدمة كتابه وخلاصته يجتهد سبونفيل في تعريف الفلسفة وصلتها بالحكمة عن طريق تتبع خصائصها واحدة تلو الأخرى، يريد أن "ينير الجمهور الكبير دون أن يسخط المتخصصين كثيرًا". يناقش سبونفيل دولوز وآلتوسير ويقتبس من مونتاني ويفتش عن "تحديد يستطيع أن يتلاءم مع سقراط كما مع كانط"، ومن أجل ذلك يميز الفلسفة عن حقول التاريخ والأدب وسائر العلوم الطبيعية والتجريبية والعلوم الإنسانية مثل علوم الدين والإجتماع والإنسان (الأنثروبولوجي) مستعملاً أسلوب القصر والإضافة. يجيب سبونفيل على السؤال الذي طرحه في البداية: "ما هي الفلسفة؟ إنها ممارسة نظرية (خطابية، عقلية، مفهومية) ولكن ليست علمية. إنها لا تخضع إلا للعقل والتجربة -باستبعاد كل وحي ذي مصدر متعال أو ما فوق الطبيعة- وتهدف أقل إلى المعرفة مما إلى التفكير أو التساؤل، وأقل إلى زيادة علمنا من النظر فيما نعرف أو نجهل، موضوعاتها المفضلة هي الكلي والإنسان، وهدفها الذي يختلف حسب الأزمنة والأفراد هو في الغالب السعادة والحرية والحقيقة، وإلتقاء الثلاثة هو الحكمة".
يمضي سبونفيل في الفصل الأول في سرد تاريخ موجز للفلسفة، مقسمًا إياها إلى أربعة أقسام: قديمة ووسيطة وحديثة ومعاصرة. لكنه قبل ذلك يفرق بين تاريخ الفلسفة وتاريخ العلوم، "إن تاريخ العلوم هو الضمان على علميته بفضل التطور الذي يشهد عليه"، بينما نجد أن "تاريخ الفلسفة ليس تاريخ تقدمه، إنه تاريخ صراعاته وإبداعاته… وتاريخ آثاره، هذا يقربه من تاريخ الفن… أكثر من تاريخ العلوم". ينتهي سبونفيل إلى أن "كل علم ماضٍ متجاوز، وكل فلسفة كبيرة لا يمكن تجاوزها" وهكذا يصبح "بتولمه أو نيوتن نهائيًا خلفنا، أما أفلاطون وديكارت فهما على العكس لا يتوقفان عن مرافقتنا". ورغم أنه يغفل ذكر الفلسفة الكلبية أثناء سرده لتاريخ الفلسفة اليونانية إلا إنه لا يغفل الفلسفة المسيحية في العصور الوسطى، ويحاول ألا يغفل ذكر أي من كبار الفلاسفة القاريين في قسمي الفلسفة الحديثة والمعاصرة.
أما في الفصل الثاني يعرض سبونفيل مباحث الفلسفة الرئيسية بدءً من الميتافيزيقيا وفلسفة المعرفة وصولاً إلى فلسفة الفن. يفرق سبونفيل بين الأخلاق العامة Morality والأخلاق الخاصة Ethics، حيث الأولى تحدد الواجب وتأمر به، بينما الثانية تتبع الممكن وتنصح به، "ماذا يجب أن أفعل؟ كيف أعيش؟ هذان السؤالان لم يكونا سوى واحد بالنسبة للقدماء، ولكنهما إثنين بالنسبة لنا: فالأخلاق العامة تجيب على الأول، والخاصة تجيب على الثاني". وبينما يختصر جميع الفلسفات السياسية في التوجه الديموقراطي والليبرالي مهملاً كلا من الماركسية والأناركية، إلا أنه يحاول جمع الفروق النوعية التي ميز الفلاسفة بها الإنسان عند الحديث عن صلة العلوم الإنساني�� بالفلسفة، "ما هو الإنسان؟… ما هو فرقنا النوعي؟ السياسة (أرسطو)؟ العقل (الرواقيون)؟ الضحك (رابليه)؟ الحرية (روسو)؟ العمل (ماركس)؟".
لماذا التفلسف؟ يجيب سبونفيل لأن التفلسف هو التفكير أبعد مما لا نعلمه ومما لا يمكن علمه، إنه التفكير أكثر من التعرف، والتساؤل أكثر من التفسير، لكن ما نحبه في الفلسفة ليس اليقين ولا الشك، بل الفكر نفسه، لذلك هي عمل (ذهني)، ولكن لا أحد يستطيع أن يقوم به مكاننا ولا يستطيع حتى إتمامه لحسابه. وهكذا يخلص إلى أن "كل علم هو غير شخصي، بينما الحكمة ليست أبدًا كذلك"، ويذكرنا مرة أخرى بما قاله مونتاني "في حين يمكن أن نصير علماء من علم الغير، لا نستطيع أن نصير حكماء إلا من حكمتنا الخاصة". كيف نميز الحكمة إذن؟ بطمأنينة النفس، والحرية الداخلية.
هذا عرض للكتاب كتبته لمشروع مجلة فلسفية تصدر على الإنترنت في عام 2014
سبونفيل يفصل المقال فيما بين الحكمة والفلسفة من اتصال!
الفلسفة - أندريه كومت سبونفيل - ترجمة: د. على بو ملحم - دار نشر: كلمة - 2008
تريد أن تقرأ عن الفلسفة؟ هناك العديد من الكتب التي أستطيع أن أرشحها لك. يمكنك أن تقرأ "عالم صوفي" لجوستاين غاردر إذا أردت رواية أدبية حول تاريخ الفلسفة، أو "ذات مرة دخل أفلاطون وخلد الماء حانة.." لدانيال كلاين وتوماس كاثكارت إذا أردت أن كتابًا طريفًا تفهم منه الفلسفة من خلال النكات، أو "فصول في الفلسفة ومذاهبها" لجود إذا أردت كتابًا كلاسيكيًا في مذاهب الفلسفة، أو "ما هي الفلسفة؟" لجيل دولوز وفليكس غتّاري إذا أردت كتابًا حديثًا عن ماهية الفلسفة. كتاب "الفلسفة" لأندريه كومت سبونفيل يقدم ماهية الفلسفة وتاريخها ومباحثها بصورة موجزة تلائم القارئ المبتدئ.
سبونفيل فيلسوف فرنسي وأستاذ محاضر في جامعة السوربون. ألف عدة كتب من بينها "الحب والوحدة" (1992)، "مقالة قصيرة حول الفضائل العظيمة" (1995)، و"هل الرأسمالية أخلاقية؟" (2004) الذي ترجمه إلى العربية بسام حجار عن دار الساقي.
في مقدمة كتابه وخلاصته يجتهد سبونفيل في تعريف الفلسفة وصلتها بالحكمة عن طريق تتبع خصائصها واحدة تلو الأخرى، يريد أن "ينير الجمهور الكبير دون أن يسخط المتخصصين كثيرًا". يناقش سبونفيل دولوز وآلتوسير ويقتبس من مونتاني ويفتش عن "تحديد يستطيع أن يتلاءم مع سقراط كما مع كانط"، ومن أجل ذلك يميز الفلسفة عن حقول التاريخ والأدب وسائر العلوم الطبيعية والتجريبية والعلوم الإنسانية مثل علوم الدين والإجتماع والإنسان (الأنثروبولوجي) مستعملاً أسلوب القصر والإضافة. يجيب سبونفيل على السؤال الذي طرحه في البداية: "ما هي الفلسفة؟ إنها ممارسة نظرية (خطابية، عقلية، مفهومية) ولكن ليست علمية. إنها لا تخضع إلا للعقل والتجربة -باستبعاد كل وحي ذي مصدر متعال أو ما فوق الطبيعة- وتهدف أقل إلى المعرفة مما إلى التفكير أو التساؤل، وأقل إلى زيادة علمنا من النظر فيما نعرف أو نجهل، موضوعاتها المفضلة هي الكلي والإنسان، وهدفها الذي يختلف حسب الأزمنة والأفراد هو في الغالب السعادة والحرية والحقيقة، وإلتقاء الثلاثة هو الحكمة".
يمضي سبونفيل في الفصل الأول في سرد تاريخ موجز للفلسفة، مقسمًا إياها إلى أربعة أقسام: قديمة ووسيطة وحديثة ومعاصرة. لكنه قبل ذلك يفرق بين تاريخ الفلسفة وتاريخ العلوم، "إن تاريخ العلوم هو الضمان على علميته بفضل التطور الذي يشهد عليه"، بينما نجد أن "تاريخ الفلسفة ليس تاريخ تقدمه، إنه تاريخ صراعاته وإبداعاته… وتاريخ آثاره، هذا يقربه من تاريخ الفن… أكثر من تاريخ العلوم". ينتهي سبونفيل إلى أن "كل علم ماضٍ متجاوز، وكل فلسفة كبيرة لا يمكن تجاوزها" وهكذا يصبح "بتولمه أو نيوتن نهائيًا خلفنا، أما أفلاطون وديكارت فهما على العكس لا يتوقفان عن مرافقتنا". ورغم أنه يغفل ذكر الفلسفة الكلبية أثناء سرده لتاريخ الفلسفة اليونانية إلا إنه لا يغفل الفلسفة المسيحية في العصور الوسطى، ويحاول ألا يغفل ذكر أي من كبار الفلاسفة القاريين في قسمي الفلسفة الحديثة والمعاصرة.
أما في الفصل الثاني يعرض سبونفيل مباحث الفلسفة الرئيسية بدءً من الميتافيزيقيا وفلسفة المعرفة وصولاً إلى فلسفة الفن. يفرق سبونفيل بين الأخلاق العامة Morality والأخلاق الخاصة Ethics، حيث الأولى تحدد الواجب وتأمر به، بينما الثانية تتبع الممكن وتنصح به، "ماذا يجب أن أفعل؟ كيف أعيش؟ هذان السؤالان لم يكونا سوى واحد بالنسبة للقدماء، ولكنهما إثنين بالنسبة لنا: فالأخلاق العامة تجيب على الأول، والخاصة تجيب على الثاني". وبينما يختصر جميع الفلسفات السياسية في التوجه الديموقراطي والليبرالي مهملاً كلا من الماركسية والأناركية، إلا أنه يحاول جمع الفروق النوعية التي ميز الفلاسفة بها الإنسان عند الحديث عن صلة العلوم الإنساني�� بالفلسفة، "ما هو الإنسان؟… ما هو فرقنا النوعي؟ السياسة (أرسطو)؟ العقل (الرواقيون)؟ الضحك (رابليه)؟ الحرية (روسو)؟ العمل (ماركس)؟".
لماذا التفلسف؟ يجيب سبونفيل لأن التفلسف هو التفكير أبعد مما لا نعلمه ومما لا يمكن علمه، إنه التفكير أكثر من التعرف، والتساؤل أكثر من التفسير، لكن ما نحبه في الفلسفة ليس اليقين ولا الشك، بل الفكر نفسه، لذلك هي عمل (ذهني)، ولكن لا أحد يستطيع أن يقوم به مكاننا ولا يستطيع حتى إتمامه لحسابه. وهكذا يخلص إلى أن "كل علم هو غير شخصي، بينما الحكمة ليست أبدًا كذلك"، ويذكرنا مرة أخرى بما قاله مونتاني "في حين يمكن أن نصير علماء من علم الغير، لا نستطيع أن نصير حكماء إلا من حكمتنا الخاصة". كيف نميز الحكمة إذن؟ بطمأنينة النفس، والحرية الداخلية.
September 17, 2022
Ce livre m’a saoulé. Sa seule qualité est qu’il m’a permis de mieux comprendre pourquoi les philosophes français modernes sont comme ils sont, et je ne suis pas sûr que ce soit un compliment.
Tout d’abord, ce livre d’introduction est complètement inaccessible au novice à qui il s’adresse. Entre le temps qu’on passe à s’acharner en vain contre des expressions obscures que seul un philosophe connaîtrait et qui ne sont (bien sûr) jamais expliqué, les phrases à deux balles un peu « deep » et littéraire mais sans aucun sens réel et les analyses psychanalytiques un peu naze sur les fondements de la philo, on est déjà mal partie.
Ensuite, ce livre n’est pas objectif. Je m’explique- voici comment chaque question est abordée. Comte-Sponville présente une question philosophique. Comte-Sponville fait une liste de position occupée par plein de philosophes à travers l’histoire- c’est assez clair qu’il a des chouchous. Comte-Sponville s’attarde sur ce qu’il en pense, sans nous dire que c’est ce qu’il en pense- c’est faire manger un médicament (son avis) à un chien en le mettant dans du jambon (un manque d’honnêteté intellectuel). Comte-Sponville conclut le débat avec une thèse générale sur la question, qui fait mine de consensus (mais vraiment c’est juste son avis à lui, ce qu’il se gardera bien d’expliquer au lecteur). Bien sûr, je n’ai aucun soucis qu’un philosophe ait un avis et qu’il le présente. Mais ceci est un Que Sais-Je sur la philosophie, et non la philosophie de Comte-Sponville.
Bref, un livre qui ne sert à rien- trop compliqué pour un débutant, et une perte de temps pour le reste du monde.
Note positive: j’ai bien aimé la blague sur les philosophes anglais, français et allemands.
Tout d’abord, ce livre d’introduction est complètement inaccessible au novice à qui il s’adresse. Entre le temps qu’on passe à s’acharner en vain contre des expressions obscures que seul un philosophe connaîtrait et qui ne sont (bien sûr) jamais expliqué, les phrases à deux balles un peu « deep » et littéraire mais sans aucun sens réel et les analyses psychanalytiques un peu naze sur les fondements de la philo, on est déjà mal partie.
Ensuite, ce livre n’est pas objectif. Je m’explique- voici comment chaque question est abordée. Comte-Sponville présente une question philosophique. Comte-Sponville fait une liste de position occupée par plein de philosophes à travers l’histoire- c’est assez clair qu’il a des chouchous. Comte-Sponville s’attarde sur ce qu’il en pense, sans nous dire que c’est ce qu’il en pense- c’est faire manger un médicament (son avis) à un chien en le mettant dans du jambon (un manque d’honnêteté intellectuel). Comte-Sponville conclut le débat avec une thèse générale sur la question, qui fait mine de consensus (mais vraiment c’est juste son avis à lui, ce qu’il se gardera bien d’expliquer au lecteur). Bien sûr, je n’ai aucun soucis qu’un philosophe ait un avis et qu’il le présente. Mais ceci est un Que Sais-Je sur la philosophie, et non la philosophie de Comte-Sponville.
Bref, un livre qui ne sert à rien- trop compliqué pour un débutant, et une perte de temps pour le reste du monde.
Note positive: j’ai bien aimé la blague sur les philosophes anglais, français et allemands.
January 3, 2023
The reason I chose to read this book is in its title: I was looking for something concise to read on the subject of philosophy.
The author, a French philosopher, explores a variety of philosophical topics, including ethics, politics, love, death, knowledge, freedom, God, atheism, art, time, humanity, and wisdom.
One aspect of the book that I particularly appreciated was its structure, with each chapter focused on a specific topic. This made the book easy to read in small chunks.
Although the book is small in size, it still manages to delve deep into complex ideas. However, at times, I found the concepts to be a bit too dense and would have benefited from additional explanation.
I suppose this is an expected challenge, when attempting to present such important and complex arguments to a lay audience within the constrain of a small book.
The chapter that stood out to me the most was the one discussing the (non) existence of God. I enjoyed reading about his theories and found myself quite engaged in these.
Overall, the title was promising and, in a way, it didn’t disappoint. I liked this book and I appreciated the way it challenged my thinking. However, I wish I had a better understanding of the concepts presented and that it helped me provoke more questions for further contemplation.
The author, a French philosopher, explores a variety of philosophical topics, including ethics, politics, love, death, knowledge, freedom, God, atheism, art, time, humanity, and wisdom.
One aspect of the book that I particularly appreciated was its structure, with each chapter focused on a specific topic. This made the book easy to read in small chunks.
Although the book is small in size, it still manages to delve deep into complex ideas. However, at times, I found the concepts to be a bit too dense and would have benefited from additional explanation.
I suppose this is an expected challenge, when attempting to present such important and complex arguments to a lay audience within the constrain of a small book.
The chapter that stood out to me the most was the one discussing the (non) existence of God. I enjoyed reading about his theories and found myself quite engaged in these.
Overall, the title was promising and, in a way, it didn’t disappoint. I liked this book and I appreciated the way it challenged my thinking. However, I wish I had a better understanding of the concepts presented and that it helped me provoke more questions for further contemplation.
December 21, 2013
I have almost finished reading this little treasure, it is a great introduction to major subjects discussed in Philosophy. Andre Comte-Sponville essays are simple to understand, and thought provoking. I can't wait to complete the book so I can delve in deeper to subjects, which leads me into another challenge to read in French: Petit Traité des Grandes Vertus.
July 28, 2007
This is a greaaaaaaaaat great book! This book answers all the questions about every little thing you've had in your mind. Conversational english makes every reader (from the beginner to philosopher) gets the essential easily. Love this book!
You Must read!
You Must read!
November 17, 2014
C'est une introduction assez rapide pour les profanes en matière de philosophie mais qui a le mérite d'aborder un grand nombre de thèmes ce qui permet de nous guider assez facilement vers certains auteurs pour approfondir.
October 10, 2016
Although it raises more questions than answers some, The Little Book of Philosophy is still an excellent introduction to various topics in philosophy including but not limited to Knowledge, Wisdom, God, Atheism, Time, Ethics.
April 23, 2024
Wonderful read for getting into philosophy, I think he does an excellent brief on the major themes of philosophy and who the quintessential players in it are. The layout of the chapters is also extremely clear. Instead of going per philosopher, he chooses to
July 31, 2011
It is a nice nifty book. I like it :)
December 1, 2012
Although the author has claimed this book is mainly for teenagers, it is still a good introduction of philosophy for those who start to think about life through experience.
June 24, 2014
Good summary overview
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