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The Story of Philosophy

Will Durant’s The Story of Philosophy, originally published in 1926, presents a sweeping historical overview of Western philosophical thought. The work doesn’t attempt a rigorous academic analysis of each philosopher, but rather aims to make complex ideas accessible to a general readership. Durant covers figures from Plato and Aristotle through Spinoza, Nietzsche, and Bergson, focusing on the biographical context and core tenets of their philosophies.

Historical / Cultural Context

Durant wrote during a period of significant cultural change in the early 20th century. The rise of modern science, psychoanalysis, and evolving social structures led to a renewed interest in the fundamental questions of existence and meaning. The Story of Philosophy reflected this broader cultural trend by offering a narrative overview of how thinkers throughout history had grappled with these issues. Its popularity stemmed from its ability to connect philosophical ideas to the everyday concerns of a wide audience, rather than being limited to an academic sphere.

Who This Book Is For

This work is ideally suited for readers with a general interest in philosophy who may not have a formal background in the subject. It serves as a solid introduction to the major figures and concepts in Western thought. Its accessible style makes it particularly appealing to those seeking a broad overview before delving into more specialized studies. It also caters to those interested in intellectual history and the evolution of ideas within a cultural context.

Further Reading

• Bertrand Russell, A History of Western Philosophy (1945): A more detailed and academically rigorous account of Western philosophy.
• Frederick Copleston, A History of Philosophy (various volumes, 1946-1965): An extensive, multi-volume history providing a comprehensive examination of philosophical traditions.
• Plato, The Republic: A foundational text in Western philosophy, explored in detail by Durant.

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