The Story of Philosophy

The Lives and Opinions of the Greater Philosophers

By: Will Durant

Narrated by: Grover Gardner

Length: 19 hrs and 27 mins

Publisher's summary

The product of 11 years of research, The Story of Philosophy is an endlessly inspiring and instructive chronicle of the world’s greatest thinkers, from Socrates to Santayana. Written with exacting and scrupulous scholarship, it was designed both to command the respect of educators and to capture the interest of the layman.

Durant lucidly describes the philosophical systems of such world-famous “monarchs of the mind” as Plato, Aristotle, Francis Bacon, Spinoza, Kant, Voltaire, and Nietzsche. Along with their ideas, he offers their flesh-and-blood biographies, placing their thoughts within their own time and place and elucidating their influence on our modern intellectual heritage. This book is packed with wisdom and wit.

Will Durant (1885-1981) was awarded the Pulitzer Prize and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He spent over 50 years writing his critically acclaimed 11-volume series The Story of Civilization. A champion of human-rights issues such as social reform and the brotherhood of man long before they were popular, he continues to educate and entertain readers and listeners worldwide through his writings.

©1926 Will Durant (P)2010 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

“A delight.” ( New York Times)

“Easily the most engaging writer of Western intellectual history in the English language, Will Durant breathes life into philosophers and their ideas. He is colorful, witty, and above all, informative.” (Amazon.com review)

I worship Will Durant, but...

This early book isn't the best introduction to Durant's body of work, nor is it indicative of his later grace, style and delectable brilliance. I'm not saying it is poorly written, but he makes references to people and modes of thought that he doesn't discuss, many I am not familiar with, or that I need a refresher to remember.

This was Durant's first published success. The money he made through this book allowed him the opportunity to travel to each location he writes about in his Magnus Opus "History of Civilization." (Volumes 1-4 are currently available on a Audible. They will blow your mind)

I'm not in a position to give a critical review of this work, because I am not nearly as well-versed in philosophy. However, I know a little, and I was confused about his choices. For ex. Will chooses a few obvious philosophers, Plato, Aristotle, then next up: Francis Bacon??? Wait where are the Stoics? Epicureans? These seem important. Moreover, after listening to his short expo on Bacon, I have no idea why he is important. (I'm not saying he isn't imp, just that this treatment of him is too short to be worthwhile)

Now, are you still reading my review? I feel guilty for saying anything about Durant that is less than entirely positive. My feelings about his History of Civilization can't be put into words. So much of his personality comes out in his HoC series, that it's hard not to adore him. But....

But if you want a real refresher on western philosophy- check out History of Western Philosophy by Bertrand Russel. It's an exceptional audiobook. Russell was a bit older, but was still a contemporary of Durant, and is cited in his books. This generation of authors is spectacular!

--- This audio had excellent narration. And if you are a philosophy buff, you might completely adore this.

Surprisingly Entertaining

Well, I need a rest from philosophy now. But for an introduction to philosophy, and philosophers (what is a philosopher?) I found it very engaging, entertaining and illuminating. I'm sure I'll listen to it again one day.

I am never disappointed by Durant.

excellent book I'm starting to read more of his history works every year and I can't get enough

Fantastic Introduction

This was a fantastic introduction to philosopy. the writer appears to be honest, yet thorough, which is rare. Durant is amazing and some would say one of the last "Renaissance man". i would encourage anybody to listen to this book.

An Excellent Book

Very well presented material that is easy to listen to. Narration is top quality. Highly recommended. Enjoy this great book.

took a lot of patience, but very very good book!

if you're genuinely interested in philosophy and have good focus, this book is for you!

Amazing book!

This book gave me a great overview of the most significant philosophers thoughts and lives.

Jim Rohn was right

Great synopsis of philosophies driving the powerful. Descriptions of Nietsche's superman helpfful in analyzing Donald Trump. Would be surprised if Trump has not been influenced by this book.

Best writer/reader combo

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Story of Philosophy?

Monumental achievement by Will Durant, beautiful, wise and comprehensive. Grover Gardner gives perfect expression to the brilliant writing

A treasure grove full of Intelectual wealth.

This book is a very appropriate introduction to some of the bigger thought within the world of philosophy, it carries no disparaging bias and speaks as only an experienced historian does about its subjects.