Where to start....

[m12 shakes]

First and foremost hello :wave:

I want to delve into the world of Philosophy but I don't know where to start (it's quite overwhelming).

Are there certain books that are classed as "must reads" if so, which editions etc as there are probably many translations etc.

Thanks,

[*Classic*Charm*]

I'd start with Plato's Republic and then follow with Aristotle, Socrates, and then go from there! They're really considered the fathers of philosophy in terms of what is currently studied.

I wouldn't know which editions to recommend though!

Good luck!

[pagebypage]

I'd start with a general survey book like Will Durant's The Story of Philosophy or A Brief History of Philosophy by Derick Johnston. Both have extensive previews in the Google Book Search.

Nigel Warburton has good introductory texts on the basics: Philosophy: The Basics and Philosophy: The Classics.

[grotto]

Philosophy is a very broad field and to give a general starting recommendation on authors may do more harm than good. You could pick up Kant and go insane or read Nietzsche and wonder what this guy might be talking. Then in confusion, you get a guide that tells you what to think instead of allowing you to think on you own, you become a pseudo philosopher that just quotes others thoughts instead of cultivating your own.

What is it you are seeking to find? Just some general info, or do you have some deeper questions you would like answered? Is there a branch that you’re interested in, Ethics, Existentialism, Western or Eastern?

There are a number of good novels out there with philosophical bends to them that could get you started and point you in a particular direction. What do you like to read? That might be a good place to start. I have even seen a few “Dummies” books that do a good job of basic explaining. Go to the book store, get a cup of coffee and browse the philosophy aisle and see what strikes you.

[qspeechc]

A study of logic would always be nice. The introductory book by Copi and Cohen is good.

[billyjack]

if yer gonna go greek, i'd begin with the pre-socratics. spark notes, believe it or not, can give you a nice summation of most of them in a timely manner. perhaps a novel that sprinkles in a little bit of philsophy would be a good starting point- zen and the art of motorcylce maintenance (pirsig) is a nice read

i started with plato's republic. not by choice, but it was a good starting point. don't be fooled by his contempt for the sensed experience. he was way off base in that regard

[robertlc53]

i just became interested in this stuff yesterday. im not even sure what prompted it. probably my incredible ability at overanalyzing things at the cost of my sanity and time. oh well, its enjoyable nonetheless even though i do not imagine some enlightened 'aha' at the end of the trail.

regardless, i just started Plato's Republic and i have to say the most interesting aspect of it would have to be the way in which the men debate to find a real answer to a real question. something i find to be rather devoid in most conversations that i currently partake in

[grotto]

The point is, there is no definitive answer, it’s the question that’s important. Every answer should ask more questions, always ask why until you get to the point of asking, who am I? Then keep going as to why I think this or that. Philosophy is to try and understand what can’t be understood. If it claims it can understand without a doubt, watch out! Run and hide! It’s slippery slope to dogma, ideology and closed minded control.

[m12 shakes]

Sorry for the delayed response, thanks for all the replies....much appreciated.

Groto, I'm not looking to find anything in particular, just something to open my mind and question things (I guess)

I've briefly read around Eastern philosophy, and found that VERY interesting.

Thanks again and I'll have a look at everyone's recommendations.

p.s. Are there major differences between the translations from various books?

Regards,

[billyjack]

here's some eastern thought books: allan watts, "the way of zen"; radhakrishnan, "the hindu view of life". or you can go with the ancients such as lao tzu or chung tzu--i'm not sure about translations

[Uberzensch]

p.s. Are there major differences between the translations from various books?


Yes!

Though, somewhat subjective, you do want to be careful about which translation you read. I'd be willing to give suggestions based on my own expeience. (I'm earning a PhD in political philosphy.) I've read the "standard" western canon.

Like others have already said, there is a lot out there. Plato's Republic is a fine start and, as Nietzsche said, everyone else has been doing the same thing since.

Another route to consider is to find a book that discusses something you have strong feelings about or a topic you are comfortable with. I find that helps people get riled up and engage the work more. It may be better than just shooting in the dark.

Good luck on your journey!