4 Must-Read Philosophy Books
We asked book enthusiasts to share the philosophy books that hold a special place in their hearts.
We hit up fellow book lovers and asked them to spill the beans on the philosophy gems that really hit home for them.
Here’s what they have to say…
“The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle
The Power of Now is one of Oprah’s most recommended books and one of mine.
The premise is that people worry about the future while living in the past.
But all we really have is the present. So few people live in the present.
It’s an extremely simple concept to understand. But it’s one that takes a lifetime to master.
And the deepest happiness comes from living in the present moment — not the past and not the future.
The Power of Now is my favorite book teaching this easy-to-understand concept.
This lesson also touches every aspect of life.
My best work as a MarTech influencer comes from when I am present.
When I am present in the moment, I make the best TikToks, I make the best posts, and I write the best newsletters.
I have the best sales calls, and I think of the most creative marketing ideas.
I’m the least anxious and most comfortable.
It’s a way of life I strive for in all my relationships and my home life.
Being present touches everything, and The Power of Now introduced me to this.
Edward Sturm, Fractional CMO, Edwardsturm.com.
Sophie’s World by Jostein Gaarder
This book is my top pick for those seeking accessible philosophy reads.
Gaarder ingeniously combines fiction with profound philosophical concepts, making it a must-read for beginners.
The book’s unique mentorship approach guides readers through centuries of philosophical thought.
Take, for example, the captivating use of a mysterious mentor, adding an element of intrigue to the exploration.
Sophie’s World is your key to understanding philosophy without getting lost in complexities — a truly enjoyable and intellectually stimulating experience for those starting their philosophical adventure.
Himanshu Sharma, CEO and Founder, Academy of Digital Marketing.
Gaarder’s writing is super approachable.
He has this knack for breaking down complex ideas into bites that are easy to chew on. Y
ou don’t need a philosophy degree to get it — trust me. It’s like having a chat with a wise friend who knows a lot about life’s big questions.
And it’s not just about loading your brain with facts.
This book nudges you to think about your own life, your beliefs, and the world around you.
It’s kind of like a mental workout that leaves you a bit wiser and more curious about the world.
In short, Sophie’s World is a friendly, eye-opening trip through philosophy that’s as enjoyable as it is enlightening.
Perfect for anyone who’s ever wondered about the big “whys” of the world!
Sophia Carter, Web Content Writer, Montessori Theory.
The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff
The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff presents complex Taoist philosophy in an accessible way using familiar characters from Winnie-the-Pooh.
Readers should explore this book as it simplifies profound ideas and makes them relatable.
The impressive aspect lies in its light-hearted approach, which effortlessly conveys deep concepts.
For example, the author uses Pooh's character to represent the essence of Taoism by highlighting his simple, present-mindedness and ability to go with the flow.
By relating to these characters, readers can better understand important Taoist concepts such as spontaneity, harmony with nature, and the balance between action and non-action.
Overall, The Tao of Pooh offers a unique perspective on philosophy and serves as an engaging entry point for readers seeking an easy-to-understand philosophical book.
Roy Lau, Co-Founder, 28 Mortgage.
The Republic by Plato
My personality represents an analytical and curious mind that has led me toward a keen interest in the philosophy of education.
I’ve read countless books on this subject, but one book that stands out to me as being particularly impressive and easy to understand is The Republic by Plato.
Many readers may be intimidated by dense and complex texts when starting their journey into philosophy.
However, The Republic offers a refreshing approach to understanding the nature of reality, justice, and morality.
Through Socratic dialogue, Plato presents his ideas conversationally and engagingly, which keeps the reader actively involved in the discussion.
For me, one step toward becoming an educated person is thinking critically and understanding the world beyond just what is visible.
Plato’s philosophical ideas have withstood the test of time and continue to be relevant in today’s society.
It’s a timeless read that can open one’s mind to new perspectives and lead to personal growth.
Eric Eng, Founder and CEO, Private College Admissions Consultant, AdmissionSight.
While it’s not a quick read, Plato’s Republic is an incredibly valuable one.
Plato presents philosophical ideas in the form of dialogues between Socrates and others, making the text approachable and easier to follow than many dense, formal philosophical books.
The Republic covers a range of topics that matter just as much today as they did in Ancient Greece.
It covers justice, morality, and the nature of the ideal state.
Because Plato uses allegories to illustrate complex concepts, the text is enjoyable to read.
His ideas come across in a way that’s both thought-provoking and comprehensible.
One more tip — get some background information before hopping straight in.
I read the chapter on Plato in Will Durant’s “The Story of Philosophy” before jumping into the works of Plato, and it helped me grasp the context and historical significance of Plato’s ideas before I read his work.
Celeste Routh, SEO Strategist, The Elegance Edit.
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