Genre Starter Kit

Philosophy Starter Kit

5 books to begin with, in the order to read them.

Old questions, still alive. A guided first step into philosophy: where to begin, how to read it, and what to try next. About 46 hours of reading.

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Books: 5
Reading time: About 46 hours
Formats: PDF, web guide, content pack

A preview

Read the opening

Why Read Philosophy
How to Read Philosophy
Your Reading Path
Adjacent Reading
Keep Going

Welcome

Why Read Philosophy

Philosophy is simply thinking carefully about the questions that will not go away: how to live, what matters, what we owe each other. The best introductions are short, direct and written to be used, not just admired.

Old questions, still alive.
The Concierge

Practical

How to Read Philosophy

Read slowly and in small pieces; a page may be enough for a morning.
Keep a notebook and write down one sentence you disagree with.
Try applying a single idea to your day before moving on.

Pairs with: A quiet morning, a notebook and a pen.

The full genre starter kit continues for another 3 sections.

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The books

On the reading list

Philosophy

Meditations

Marcus Aurelius

The private notebooks of a Roman emperor, a practical guide to composure, duty and meeting life as it comes.

Literary Fiction

The Alchemist

Paulo Coelho

A young Andalusian shepherd sets out for the Egyptian pyramids in search of treasure, and learns along the way what it means to follow a personal calling.

Science

Outlive

Peter Attia

A physician argues that the goal of medicine should be a longer healthspan, not just a longer life, with practical guidance on exercise, nutrition, sleep and emotional health.

Fantasy