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Philosophical Dictionary
- Narrated by: Donal Donnelly
- Length: 4 hrs and 14 mins
- Unabridged Audiobook
- Release date: 12-16-99
- Language: English
- Publisher: Recorded Books
Regular price: $17.47
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Editorial Reviews
Voltaire's Philosophical Dictionary isn't exactly what one might think of when the word "dictionary" is mentioned. Instead of a long catalog of definitions and terms, this collection is a series of articles and thoughts from one of the Enlightenment's greatest and most subversive thinkers. Actor, Donal Donnelly, with his pleasant lilt, enhances Voltaire's natural wit and satire. Subjects in this collection range from freedom of press to the Roman Catholic Church, of which Voltaire has plenty of humorous and scathing things to say.
Publisher's Summary
Preeminent French cynic and philosopher Voltaire (1694-1778) collected ideas and thoughts that were too short for pamphlets but worth saving for later development. These jottings eventually became the Philosophical Dictionary, filled with witty and wise entries on subjects as diverse as Atheism and Kissing - a compendium of the whole spectrum of Voltaire's ideas. This champion of the Enlightenment's merciless satire, unorthodox views, and enmity to organized religion were a source of irritation to the political and religious authorities of his day.
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- Michael
- Walnut Creek, CA, United States
- 05-08-08
Good for historical value only...
In the 1700's this would have been really relevant and humorous. Luckily, many of Voltaire's insightful and then controversial ideas are now common wisdom. This leaves this volume as being interesting mostly in the historical sense. I could not recommend it for the humor, philosophical insights, or educational value. I am glad I listened, but this is definitely not for everyone.
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
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Overall2 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story4 out of 5 stars
- Tom O'hayon
- 03-17-17
Great Book, too bad It's incomplete
Any additional comments?
I have been looking for a good Audio book of this classic text, but this is not it. the translation is good, the reading is excellent, but it is a vary abridged version (in contrary to its declaration of being "Unabridged"). out of the hole book, this version contains about a fifth.
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Overall1 out of 5 stars
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Performance1 out of 5 stars
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Story1 out of 5 stars
- Predicate
- 04-23-18
don't waste.your money.
don't waste your money. it isn't what you think it is. it's story's that horrible
0 of 1 people found this review helpful