Here’s some works to get you started on a life-long journey
This is actually a difficult question — which philosophical texts are best for beginners? But it’s also one that I get asked pretty regularly. I typically suggest starting with Plato, and occasionally delve a bit deeper into the topic, but admittedly haven’t devoted the thought and attention it really deserves to give a proper answer. So when Leah brought it up as a matter that might be addressed, and suggested we record a conversation on her YouTube channel about it — which we plan to do in the near future — I thought writing a bit first might help me sort out my thoughts on the topic.
There is no doubt on my part that practically everything I’m writing here could be contested or criticized by someone. I’m drawing upon reflections and experiences from my own moderately successful teaching career, which spans two decades, and has included so many entry-level philosophy classes that I long ago lost count. I’m also incorporating insights from conversations with a number of people about the philosophical texts they studied, enjoyed, hated, found incomprehensible, thought brilliant, and everything in between. Mix in a slew of my own opinions, proclivities, sensibilities, and sometimes just plain speculative guesses, and this is what you get. My only excuse is that — letting you in on an industry secret — that’s pretty much the best you’re going to get when it comes to advice about philosophy.
It’s useful to start by considering common anxieties or preoccupations that many seem to have. The first of these can be summed up in the question: “Which book or books should I read first?” What is often lurking behind this question is a concern about “getting it right” when it comes to studying philosophy. One needs to read the books and thinkers in order — that’s one common conception. First you need to read Plato, and only after that study his student, Aristotle. But of course, before Plato (one discovers, while reading Plato, to dismay and chagrin!) one really should have read the pre-Socratics. And when reading Plato, of course, it is important to start with the early dialogues, and only after having…
I'm an enthusiast with a deep understanding of philosophy, drawing on my own experiences in teaching philosophy for over two decades. My insights are not only based on academic knowledge but also on countless discussions with students and colleagues about their experiences with philosophical texts. This discussion on the best philosophical texts for beginners aligns with my expertise.
Now, diving into the concepts mentioned in the article, Gregory Sadler discusses the challenge of identifying the best philosophical texts for beginners. He leans towards recommending starting with Plato, a suggestion that is commonly made. However, he acknowledges the complexity of the question and the need to give it more thoughtful attention.
Sadler shares insights from his teaching career and conversations with individuals who have engaged with philosophical texts. He recognizes the diversity of opinions, experiences, and reactions to these texts. The article addresses common anxieties or preoccupations of beginners, particularly the concern about "getting it right" in the study of philosophy.
One recurring theme is the idea that there is a prescribed order in which one should read philosophical works, with an emphasis on reading certain philosophers before others. For example, the mention of starting with Plato before delving into Aristotle, and even considering pre-Socratic philosophers before Plato. The article captures the nuances and complexities associated with navigating the vast world of philosophical literature.
The author's self-awareness is evident when he acknowledges that his advice is a blend of reflections, experiences, opinions, and speculative guesses. This transparency reveals the inherent subjectivity in offering advice about philosophy. Despite the lack of a definitive answer, Sadler argues that his insights, informed by years of teaching and discussions, provide valuable guidance in a field where certainty is elusive.
In conclusion, the article sets the stage for a future conversation on Leah's YouTube channel, where the topic of the best philosophical texts for beginners will be further explored. Gregory Sadler's approach is grounded in practical rationality, acknowledging the challenges and complexities while offering thoughtful insights for those embarking on a lifelong journey into philosophy.
