Description
Book SynopsisWhat would the global history of philosophy look like if it were told not as a story of ideas but as a series of job descriptions--ones that might have been used to fill the position of philosopher at different times and places over the past 2,500 years? The Philosopher does just that, providing a new way of looking at the history of philosophy by
Trade ReviewWinner of the 2017 PROSE Award in Philosophy, Association of American Publishers "Clear, engaging and enlightening."--Stephen Gaukroger, Times Literary Supplement "The Philosopheris a fun book to read for anyone, professional philosophers included."--Siddharth Singh, Open Magazine "The strength of Smith's approach is to demonstrate philosophical thought in action, and the book comes into its own when introducing readers to philosophers outside the recognized canon."--Joe Humphreys, Irish Times "The array of thinkers cited is gender and culture inclusive, and the writing style is stylish and interspersed with touches of humor."--Choice "A thoughtful, provocative, and quietly confident account of what it is to do philosophy."--Sarah Gustafson, Key Reporter
Table of ContentsAcknowledgments xi Introduction 1 1 Singular Things and Timeless Truths Featuring the Curiosa 21 2 Philosophy and Philosophia Featuring the Sage 54 3 Inside and Out Featuring the Gadfly 120 4 Body and Soul Featuring the Ascetic 159 5 Mountains and Valleys Featuring the Mandarin 190 6 Money and Love Featuring the Courtier 223 Conclusion 237 Notes 241 Bibliography 253 Index 263
