Summary of "Top 5 Modern Philosophical Novels - fiction books all philosophers must read"
Top 5 Modern Philosophical Novels:
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The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom (2003)
- Themes: Afterlife, personal identity, personal growth, existentialism, love, and sacrifice.
- Concept: The protagonist, Eddie, reflects on his life and the people who influenced him after his death.
- Artistic Technique: Emotional storytelling that encourages self-reflection.
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The Synchronicity of Ulisses by George Soros (2021)
- Themes: Pantheism, mysticism, spirituality, philosophy of religion, and the philosophy of time.
- Concept: Follows Ulisses on a spiritual journey as he discovers his unique connection to the universe.
- Artistic Technique: Adventure narrative filled with metaphysical ideas.
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The Midnight Library by Matt Haig (2020)
- Themes: Personal identity, modal realism, existentialism, free will, and the meaning of life.
- Concept: Nora explores alternate lives through a library that allows her to review her regrets.
- Artistic Technique: Dark, somber storytelling that evokes empathy and introspection.
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Blindsight by Peter Watts (2006)
- Themes: Philosophy of mind, consciousness, AI, personal identity, and epistemology.
- Concept: Set in a future where a crew investigates alien phenomena, blending science fiction with deep philosophical questions.
- Artistic Technique: Hard science fiction with a gripping narrative and complex characters.
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The Philosopher's Apprentice by James Morrow (2007)
- Themes: Ethics, moral philosophy, utilitarianism, deontological ethics, and stoicism.
- Concept: A philosopher teaches a girl who lost her memory about ethics, uncovering sinister truths along the way.
- Artistic Technique: A thought-provoking story that integrates philosophical lessons into the narrative.
Additional Mention:
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Requisite Release by Philosophy Vibe
- Concept: Follows Simon, who battles depression and seeks meaning in life through therapy sessions.
- Artistic Technique: A compilation of therapy notes and journal logs, exploring deep philosophical themes.
Contributors:
- George (host and creator of Philosophy Vibe)
- Mitch Albom, George Soros, Matt Haig, Peter Watts, James Morrow (authors of the discussed novels)
Category
Art and Creativity