Philosophical Dictionary

By Francois Voltaire, Theodore Besterman (translator), Theodore Besterman (editor)

Book cover of Philosophical Dictionary

Book description

Voltaire's Philosophical Dictionary, first published in 1764, is a series of short, radical essays - alphabetically arranged - that form a brilliant and bitter analysis of the social and religious conventions that then dominated eighteenth-century French thought. One of the masterpieces of the Enlightenment, this enormously influential work of sardonic…

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Why read it?

1 author picked Philosophical Dictionary as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Claudia Amendola Alzraa

Author

As a philosophy student at university, I stuck my nose up at Voltaire and his cynicism and blunt words. Now, in my wise old age, I not only realize the truth behind his aphorisms but I am also astounded by how accurately he speaks to life happening now.

History repeats itself is not a cliche, it’s fact, and while reading this book, I found myself taken aback by Voltaire’s wisdom. It highlighted so many present-day issues despite being written centuries ago and offered meaningful and groundbreaking approaches to navigating life. I’m so grateful I returned to Voltaire.

From Claudia's 3 favorite reads in 2023.