redrobinbookreviews

Examined Lives: From Socrates to Nietzsche   James Miller
Interesting, well researched biographies of major western philosophers. Some good analysis of their ideas as well. Don’t know that I would have included Seneca, or some of the others such as Augustine, Montaigne, Rousseau, and Emerson because it’s questionable whether they were actual philosophers, and because of a personal lack of interest. Surprising how strongly Kant was influenced by Rousseau, at least according to Miller. Interested also that he had to hide his atheism to protect his position. Always thought his philosophy was atheist. Kant’s late-life dementia, and Nietzsche’s insanity, are deeply sad. Enjoyed reading through this.