What does it all mean?
a very short introduction to philosophy
by Thomas Nagel · first published 1987
5mentions
4recommended by
5HN commenters
2015–2022first – last mentioned
80% recommend20% neutral
Most people think about philosophical problems without realizing it. Introducing the uninitiated to the world of philosophical inquiry, this book examines nine philosophical problems fundamental to everyday living. It contains short introduction to the methods of philosophy for those with a taste for abstract ideas and theoretical arguments.
Affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The community college course I took past spring used Thomas Nagel (What Does It All Mean?) supplemented with some handouts. I would recommend a class because part of the doing of philosophy is the discussion. Plus the classroom is one of the few places where you can delve into the nuances…
on “What is it like to understand advanced mathematics?” ↗A manager at work (not mine) gave me a sliver of a book called "What Does it All Mean?" by Thomas Nagel. It prompted me to appreciate and learn more about philosophy. It also helped me learn to enjoy things like philosophy for their own sake, outside of an academic setting. The book itself…
on “Ask HN: What books changed the way you think about almost everything?” ↗…introductions to philosophy that I always recommend are Simon Blackburn: The Oxford Dictionary of Philosophy (not intended as an introduction but IMO it makes a really fun introduction) Thomas Nagel: What Does It All Mean? A Very Short Introduction to Philosophy
on “Ask HN: Which book can attract anyone towards your field of study?” ↗…The advice in the article is good with several high quality recommendations of specific places to begin getting up to speed with a grasp of current Western thought. I'd add a recommendation to read "What Does It All Mean?" By Thomas Nagel, and then first "The Problems of Philosophy" and then if you find yourself wanting to dig deeper "The History of Western Philosophy" both by Bertrand Russell. Being an intellectual…
on “An intellectual starter kit” ↗…surveillance. = Mar = The HitchHiker’s Guide to the Galaxy - Douglas Adams 4 The Restaurant at the End of the Universe - Douglas Adams 3 Had never read this series, thought it might be about time. = Apr = What does it all Mean? - Thomas Nagel 2 (though it is kind of meant for people who have never done any Philosophy, ever, so would recommend to someone like that. Will pass it on to someone taking an interest in the subject)…
on “Ask HN: Books you read in 2015?” ↗