The Form of Things: Essays on Life, Ideas and Liberty

"Grief and loneliness, depression, despair and failure—those things . . . are the common human lot at least at times in all our lives." Yet it is philosophy which, while not providing an answer to these problems, can enable people to prepare for them, and create strategies with which to deal with them. This is the fifth in a series of essay miscellanies from foremost philosopher A. C. Grayling, reflecting upon the form of the world and its multiplicity. He argues that it is only through reflecting upon the world, reading, thinking, questioning, enjoying, that one can inculcate understanding, tolerance, and the courage to live one's life. The essays are grouped by theme into reflections upon life and the standards people live by, including vivid polemics and perceptive pieces on significant thinkers, contemporary rights, and liberties issues. This book brilliantly articulates the philosophical debate and reflection that is needed to prepare for life in the 21st century.

A. C. Grayling teaches philosophy at the University of London, writes a weekly column for the Guardian, and frequently contributes to The New York Times Book Review, among other publications. He is the author of many philosophy books, including The Heart of Things; Life, Sex, and Ideas; Meditations for the Humanist; The Mystery of Things; and The Reason of Things.