Philosophy Dictionary (Vol. 1 & 2)

Author: Voltaire (French), translated by Wang Yansheng
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Features: Voltaire (1694–1778) was a renowned philosopher, writer, and a leading figure of the French Enlightenment's Encyclopedist movement. Dictionnaire philosophique was published anonymously in 1764 and is one of his major works. The original book embodies the rationalist principles of the French Encyclopedist movement, delivering fierce attacks and critiques of the political, social, and religious conditions of France at the time, leading to its prohibition by the authoritarian authorities. The Chinese translation selects and translates 100 key entries, reflecting the author's philosophical ideas of deism and empiricism, while highlighting his exposure and critique of the feudal system and its spiritual pillar, the Catholic Church. The main features of this book are two: First, it prominently opposes Christianity, especially Catholicism, condemning the ignorance, superstition, and persecution of the innocent brought about by religious fanaticism; second, it emphasizes rationalist philosophical thought, believing that only this consciousness of reasoning from rationality can bring a glimmer of hope to humanity. Reading this book, and drawing inspiration from the author Voltaire's approach to problem-solving—starting from reasonable rationality, free from inherent biases, exploring truth, and daring to face reality in the spirit of fighting for ideals—will be beneficial for us to understand reality, seek truth, and take reasonable actions.