Philosophy Audiobooks | Non-Fiction

Ian Buruma explores the life and death of Baruch Spinoza, the Enlightenment thinker whose belief in freedom of thought and speech resonates in our own time Baruch (Benedictus) Spinoza (1632-1677) was a radical free thinker who led a life guided by strong moral principles despite his disbelief in an all-seeing God. Seen by many as Satan's disciple during his lifetime, Spinoza has been regarded as a secular saint since his death. Many contradictory beliefs have been attached to his name: rationalism or metaphysics, atheism or pantheism, liberalism or despotism, Jewishness or anti-Semitism. However, there is no question that he viewed freedom of thought and speech as essential to an open and free society. In this insightful account, the award-winning author Ian Buruma stresses the importance of the time and place that shaped Spinoza, beginning with the Sephardim of Amsterdam and followed by the politics of the Dutch Republic. Though Spinoza rejected the basic assumptions of his family's faith, and was consequently expelled from his Sephardic community, Buruma argues that Spinoza did indeed lead a modern Jewish life. To Heine, Hess, Marx, Freud, and no doubt many others today, Spinoza exemplified how to be Jewish without believing in Judaism. His defense of universal freedom is as important for our own time as it was in his.

Ian Buruma (Author), Lee Beddow (Narrator)

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Enlightenment is an Accident: Ancient Wisdom & Simple Practices to Make You Accident Prone

A warm-hearted guide to Buddhist practice for those ready to contend with the reality that enlightenment-the realization of non-self-can't be achieved by the self. A well-known spiritual saying goes, 'Enlightenment is an accident. But we can make ourselves more accident-prone.' As an authentic American Zen takes shape, enlightenment continues to be misunderstood as a project to be completed, a goal to be achieved, or a prize to be awarded. Tim Burkett's new book unhooks enlightenment from the hot air balloon of ego and brings it back down to earth. Drawing on stories of his first teacher, the Zen master Shunryu Suzuki (author of Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind), and Burkett's decades of practice and teaching, he reveals how to live in the world with a deep joy that comes from embracing the work and play of this very moment. With the wisdom and humor of a seasoned practitioner familiar with all manner of eccentric fixations and silly dead-ends, he offers views and practices we can use to support the paradoxical process of letting enlightenment happen on its own.

Tim Burkett (Author), Kyle Tait (Narrator)

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Breakthrough: How to Think Like a Scientist, Learn How to Fail and Embrace the Unknown

Brought to you by Penguin. Science helps us to understand ourselves in a world where we often feel like strangers - but what we know about the world around us, what has already been explored and discovered is only half of science's story. Unexplained will explore the frontier between what we do and don't know about the world: where knowledge meets mystery, complexity overwhelms certainty, and the vastness of our universe unspools the logic of science's established laws. Dr Camilla Pang will teach you to embrace the beauty in the unexplained and fall in love with the search for unknown answers. Camilla will look at some of the biggest mysteries facing science today, and more importantly, how some of the best scientists in the world are exploring them. Their approaches to scientific observation, hypothesis, exploration, troubleshooting and discovery can teach us valuable lessons about the mysteries of our own lives. There's a scientist hidden inside all of us, an explorer who wants to harness what motivates us, explore the grey areas in our lives and understand how our world - beset by new technology and ubiquitous information - is constantly changing. We can all learn something from the spirit of exploration and discovery that science demands. Its greatest gift to us is not formulae, not techniques and laws, but enabling the urge to discover that makes us truly human. ©2024 Camilla Pang (P)2024 Penguin Audio

Camilla Pang (Author), Dr Camilla Pang, TBD (Narrator)

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The Performer: Art, Life, Politics

An acclaimed sociologist's exploration of the connections among performances in life, art, and politics In The Performer, Richard Sennett explores the relations between performing in art (particularly music), politics, and everyday experience. It focuses on the bodily and physical dimensions of performing, rather than on words. Sennett is particularly attuned to the ways in which the rituals of ordinary life are performances. The book draws on history and sociology, and more personally on the author's early career as a professional cellist, as well as on his later work as a city planner and social thinker. It traces the evolution of performing spaces in the city; the emergence of actors, musicians, and dancers as independent artists; the inequality between performer and spectator; the uneasy relations between artistic creation and social and religious ritual; the uses and abuses of acting by politicians. The Janus-faced art of performing is both destructive and civilizing.

Richard Sennett (Author), Paul Boehmer (Narrator)

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Buddhist Meditation: Classic Teachings from Tibet

A Tibetan Buddhist anthology of accessible and authentic contemplative exercises to help cultivate innate yet undeveloped powers of mind, emotion, and body. A Penguin Classic Drawn from Tibet's rich contemplative literature, Buddhist Meditation offers classic exercises focused on the opportunities and challenges of life; cultivating inner calm; fostering a wider perspective on oneself in relationship to others; working with negative emotions, and the highest values of the Buddhist tradition, love and compassion. Several dozen meditation instructions are collected in twelve chapters. All major traditions of Tibetan Buddhism are represented. The book is structured on 'foundation practices', practice manuals that immerse the reader in the search for meaningful and compassionate responses to the ubiquity of human suffering, and in the contemplative techniques that translate that search into consequential action. Spiritual exercises introduce 1) the opportunity for self-betterment and to be of benefit to other living beings; 2) the inescapable persistence of suffering in life, and the reality of death; 3) the workings of ethical cause and effect, otherwise known as karma; and 4) the ever-repeating succession of frustration known as cyclic existence, or samsara. The second set of foundation practices provide tools to build upon including: 5) taking refuge in Buddhism-a deep formal commitment to integrate Buddhist contemplative and ethical teachings into one's life; 6) cultivating love and compassion for all living beings; 7) clearing away cognitive, emotional, and behavioral impediments to actualizing love and compassion; 8) developing with wisdom and the experience and excellent qualities necessary to put love and compassion into practice; and 9) dedicating oneself to a spiritual mentor to serve as a guide through this intensive program of training. Part existential philosophy, part ethics, part self-help program, part cosmology-the foundation exercises present a complete Buddhist picture of life, the ethical universe, and the first steps in making a positive impact in life for ourselves and others, steps anyone can begin to take by dedicating themselves to train in contemplative exercises.

Penguin Random House (Author), Lee Osorio, TBD (Narrator)

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Who's Afraid of Gender?

Brought to you by Penguin. From a global icon, a bold, essential account of how a fear of gender is fuelling reactionary politics around the world Judith Butler, the ground-breaking philosopher whose influential work has redefined how we think about gender and sexuality, confronts the attacks on gender that have become central to right-wing movements today. Global networks have formed 'anti-gender ideology movements' dedicated to circulating a fantasy that gender is a dangerous threat to families, local cultures, civilization --and even 'man' himself. Inflamed by the rhetoric of public figures, this movement has sought to abolish reproductive justice, undermine protections against violence, and strip trans and queer people of their rights. But what, exactly, is so scary about gender? In this vital, courageous book, Butler carefully examines how 'gender' has become a phantasm for emerging authoritarian regimes, fascist formations, and transexclusionary feminists. They illuminate the concrete ways that this phantasm displaces anxieties and fears of destruction. Operating in tandem with deceptive accounts of critical race theory and xenophobic panics about migration, the anti-gender movement demonizes struggles for equality, fuels aggressive nationalism, and leaves millions of people vulnerable to subjugation. An essential intervention into one of the most fraught issues of our moment, Who's Afraid of Gender? is a bold call to make a broad coalition with all those whose struggle for equality is linked with fighting injustice. Imagining new possibilities for both freedom and solidarity, Butler offers us an essentially hopeful work that is both timely and timeless. ©2024 Judith Butler (P)2024 Penguin Audio

Judith Butler (Author), Judith Butler, TBD (Narrator)

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Abolition: Politics, Practices, Promises, Vol. 1

Angela Y. Davis (Author), Angela Y. Davis, TBD (Narrator)

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The Price of Life: In Search of What We're Worth and Who Decides

'Like Louis Theroux channelling Margaret Atwood' New Statesman * $2-3,000 to save the life of a child in Africa * £15,180 to hire a hitman * $368,901 to pay the average ransom demand We say that life is priceless. Yet the cost of saving a life, creating a life or compensating for a life taken is routinely calculated and put into practice. In a world in love with data, it is possible to run a cost-benefit analysis on anything - including life itself. For philanthropists, judges, criminals, healthcare providers and government ministers, it's just part of the job. In The Price of Life, journalist, broadcaster and documentary-maker Jenny Kleeman takes us on an adventure to meet some of the people who decide what we're worth. In a series of extraordinary encounters - with people who have faked their own death or lost a loved one to terrorism, with hitmen and with modern day slaves - she discovers more questions than answers. What does it mean for our humanity when we crunch the numbers to decide who gets the expensive life-saving drugs, and who misses out? What do we learn about ourselves when philanthropic giving by the effective altruists in Silicon Valley is received by some, while others are left to suffer? Are some lives really worth more than others? And what happens when we take human emotions out of the equation? Does it make for a fairer decision-making process - or for moral bankruptcy? Exploring the final frontier in monetization, Kleeman asks what we lose and what we gain by leaving the judgments that really matter up to cold, hard logic. Praise for Sex Robots & Vegan Meat: 'A tour of the lurid fringes of the tech world' The Times 'A moreish page-turner of a book' Herald 'Compelling and thoughtful' The Guardian 'Mesmerising' Daily Mail 'Alarming, funny, thought-provoking and fascinating' Stig Abell

Jenny Kleeman (Author), Jenny Kleeman, TBD (Narrator)

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The Archbishop Interviews: Series 1 and 2: Presented by The Most Reverend Justin Welby, Archbishop o

Archbishop Justin Welby explores the inner lives of public figures in revealing conversations Listen now to fascinating and remarkable conversations between The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, and leading men and women as they discuss big questions about humankind. This collection is a must-listen for anyone looking to explore life beyond the sensational headlines and glossy PR that dominate our world. The interviews delve into what it really means to be human, and each guest has an incredible story that is shared in a deeply personal way. Take a deep dive into these engaging discussions, which explore the moral touchstones, values and desires in our lives. Welby creates a space for frank, candid and startlingly honest dialogue exploring in depth such themes as love, loss, grief and power. The guests discuss their own personal faith, spirituality and beliefs and how these frameworks underpin the big decisions, important moments and meaningful experiences in their lives. This series of twelve thoughtful and unique interviews include Tony Blair discussing the decisions that took the UK to war, Nick Cave reflecting on the grief of losing his son and Zarifa Ghafari exploring how her faith has kept her campaigning for women’s rights against all odds. These immersive, impactful conversations with the Archbishop are like no other interview. Elif Shafak: The British-Turkish novelist and political scientist discusses how she gives voice to uncomfortable subjects such as gender-based violence, child abuse and genocide. Susan Blackmore: The renowned psychologist and atheist explores consciousness and her own interpersonal habits and beliefs. Tony Blair: The former UK Prime Minster, who took the country to war, discusses the impact his faith had on the decisions he made when in office. Nick Carter: The retired head of the British Armed Forces General speaks about the intense conflict, suffering and bravery he has witnessed in his career. Clare Moriarty: The former civil servant discusses her role as ‘faith and belief champion’ in the service where she said, ‘of all the diversity characteristics, faith and belief is the one we talk about least’. Stephen King: The bestselling novelist and household name has been called the ‘King of Horror’ but where does that dark creativity come from. John Cleese: The comedy writer and actor talks about his long career and how his beliefs have shaped his values and actions in life. Shirine Khoury-Haq: The first female Chief Executive of the Co-Op in its 159-year history, Khoury-Haq reveals the impact of her inner faith on her life and success. Zarifa Ghafari: Survivor of three assassination attempts, the celebrated Afghan human rights campaigner and former mayor explores the importance of her faith and her own mortality. Nick Cave: The internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter talks frankly and openly about grief, loss, addiction and his complex relationship with the Bible. Gabriel Byrne: A childhood marked by sexual abuse at the hands of catholic priests, the actor and filmmaker discusses suffering, turmoil and hope in relationship to faith and the church. Cressida Dick: As the first female and openly lesbian Metropolitan Police Commissioner between 2017 and 2022, Dame Cressida Dick faces how she navigated her inner life alongside her public profile. Credits Produced by Dan Tierney First broadcast on Radio 4 Elif Shafak 20 Feb 2022 Susan Blackmore 27 Feb 2022 Tony Blair 6 Mar 2022 Nick Carter 13 Mar 2022 Clare Moriarty 20 Mar 2022 Stephen King 27 Mar 2022 John Cleese 4 Jun 2023 Shirine Khoury-Haq 11 Jun 2023 Zarifa Ghafari 18 Jun 2023 Nick Cave 25 Jun 2023 Gabriel Byrne 2 Jul 2023 Cressida Dick 9 Jul 2023 ©2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Justin Welby (Author), Clare Moriarty, Elif Shafak, John Cleese, Justin Welby, Nick Carter, Nick Cave, Shirine Khoury-Haq, Stephen King, Susan Blackmore, Tony Blair, Various, Zarifa Ghafari (Narrator)

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How to Connect

Brought to you by Penguin. One breath, one step is all we need to feel at home and comfortable in the here and now In this enlightening series world-renowned spiritual leader Thich Nhat Hanh shares the essential foundations of mindful practise and mediation. From unlocking the connection to our inner self, forging deeper and more meaningful bonds with those around us to discovering a true sense of oneness with our natural world, this is the essential guide to help you master the art of connection. ‘The monk who taught the world mindfulness’ Time ©2020 Thich Nhat Hanh (P)2024 Penguin Audio

Thich Nhat Hanh (Author), John Sackville, TBD (Narrator)

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The First Clash: The Miraculous Greek Victory at Marathon and Its Impact on Western Civilization

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER Marathon-one of history's most pivotal battles. Its very name evokes images of almost superhuman courage, endurance, and fighting spirit. But until now, the story of what happened at Marathon has been told exclusively through the narrow viewpoint of specialists in antiquity. In this eye-opening new book, acclaimed journalist Jim Lacey, both a military historian and a combat veteran, takes a fresh look at Marathon and reveals why the battle happened, how it was fought, and whether, in fact, it saved Western civilization. Lacey brilliantly reconstructs the world of the fifth century B.C. leading up to the astonishing military defeat of the Persian Empire by the vastly undermanned but determined Greek defenders. Using the seminal work of Herodotus as his starting point, Lacey reconstructs the tactical and strategic scenario of the battle, including how many combatants each side might have used and who actually led the Greeks. He also disputes the long-repeated myths of Athenian inexperience and effete Persian arrogance. With the kind of vivid detail that characterizes the best modern war reportage, Lacey shows how the heavily armed Persian army was shocked, demoralized, and ultimately defeated by the relentless assault of the Athenian phalanx, which battered the Persian line in a series of brutal attacks. He reveals the fascinating aftermath of Marathon, how its fighters became the equivalent of our "Greatest Generation," and challenges the view of many historians that Marathon ultimately proved the Greek "Western way of war" to be the superior strategy for fighting-and winning-battles to the present day. Immediate, visceral, and full of new analyses that defy decades of conventional wisdom, The First Clash is a superb interpretation of a conflict that indeed made the world safe for Aristotle, Plato, and our own modern democracy. But it was also a battle whose legacy and lessons have often been misunderstood-perhaps, now more than ever, at our own peril. * This audiobook includes a downloadable PDF containing illustrated maps and the Dramatis Personae, from the printed book.

James Lacey (Author), Mike Cooper (Narrator)

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Moral AI: And How We Get There

Brought to you by Penguin. A reassuring and thought-provoking guide to all the big questions about AI and ethics Should robots ever be considered free? Will computers transcend human intelligence? And what can we do to make sure AI is safe? The artificial intelligence revolution has begun. Today, there are self-driving cars on our streets, autonomous weapons in our armies, robot surgeons in our hospitals - and AI's presence in our lives will only increase. Some see this as the dawn of new era in innovation and ease; others are alarmed by its destructive potential. But one thing is clear: this is a technology like no other, one that raises profound questions about freedom, justice and the very definition of human agency. In Moral AI, world-renowned researchers in artificial intelligence and philosophy, Jana Schaich Borg, Walter Sinnott-Armstrong and Vince Conitzer tackle these thorny issues head-on. Writing lucidly and calmly, they lay out the recent advances in this still nascent field, peeling away the exaggeration and alarm, and offer clear examinations of the moral concerns at the heart of AI programmes. Ultimately, they argue that artificial intelligence can be built and used safely and ethically, but that its potential cannot be achieved without careful reflection on the values we wish to imbue it with. This is an essential primer for any thinking person. ©2024 Jana Schaich Borg, Vincent Conitzer, and Walter Sinnott-Armstrong (P)2024 Penguin Audio

Jana Schaich Borg, Vincent Conitzer, Walter Sinnott-Armstrong (Author), Rory Alexander, TBD (Narrator)

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Philosophy Audiobooks in Non-Fiction