Philosophy Dictionary - (Volume 1 and Volume 2)

Author: Voltaire
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1997-04-01
Features: Voltaire (1694–1778) was a renowned philosopher, writer, and a leading figure of the 18th-century French Enlightenment movement, representing the Encyclopedist school. Dictionnaire philosophique was published anonymously in 1764 and is one of his major works. The original book embodies the rationalist doctrines of the French Encyclopedist movement, launching fierce attacks and critiques on 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 thoughts on 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 twofold: First, it strongly opposes Christianity, particularly the Catholic Church, condemning the ignorance, superstition, and persecution of the innocent brought about by religious fanaticism; second, it emphasizes rationalist philosophical thought, asserting that only this consciousness of reason, which starts from rational thinking, can bring a glimmer of hope to humanity. Reading this book, and drawing inspiration from the author Voltaire's approach to problem-solving—paying attention to reasonable rationality, not being confined by inherent biases, exploring truth, and the courage to face reality and fight for ideals—can be beneficial for us to better understand reality, seek truth, and take reasonable actions.