Moderate. Not the high mark of Will Durant
The book is a collection of interviews and articles in interaction with the great writer, but the subject depth is lacking and there is little cohesion.
Interesting but very much dated
This book needs to be updated to include modern greats, such as Einstein etc. Otherwise, an interesting and informative experience, although the poetry part was a bit dull.
Inspirational Introduction to Will Durant
This was my first introduction to Will Durant and it did not dissapoint. It was a very quick and easy read as well as being both a great historical refresher and a great insight into the mind of this legendary figure. The book includes top ten lists of the greatest thinkers, poets, and peaks of human progress among others. Durant's commentary is very insightful and his selection methodology is well reasoned. This has inspired me to read more of his works and texts from his Top 100 Best Books for Education.
Great CD.....full of wonderful historical info!
Will Durant and his wife Ariel devoted over 50 years to the study of history and philosophy; creating 11 sage volumes of "The Story of Civilization."
His dedication and hard work ultimately earned him a Pulitzer Prize in literature, followed by the highest award granted by the United States government to civilians, the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Ford in 1977.
Durant endeavored to make history more than just dates committed to memory and to bring our human heritage richly alive in the men and women who've walked before us and influenced our lives.
Often called THE GENTLE PHILOSOPHER, his words are laced with warmth and humor as he brings these great thinkers to life!
His lists include the best books for an education, the ten greatest thinkers, the ten greatest poets, twelve vital dates in human history, and the ten peaks of human progress.
I have listened to this in the car and have learned that I have many books and authors with which I have yet to acquaint myself!
It's read with wit, warmth, and wisdom.
Highly recommended!
"The most interesting thing in the world is another human being who wonders, suffers and raises the questions that have bothered him to the last day of his life, knowing he will never get the answers."
Will Durant
A place to begin
As the Durant himself acknowledges, all lists have their limitations. This is no exception; it isn't perfect and never claims to be. That said, it's an excellent starting point for anyone looking to educate themselves on the history of philosophy and culture. It has an unquestionable bent on western authors, but within that bent, he made his choices based on solid reasoning.
Bottom line: you will have begun to give yourself an invaluable education if you read any of the books or authors that Durant suggests. Therefore, this slim volume is worth more than whatever you're about to pay for it.
(22 reviews)
