Exploring Philosophy through Books: Recommendations for Teenagers

As a teenager with a keen interest in philosophy, it can be challenging to find the right philosophical works to delve into. This article aims to provide a diverse range of books that are both thought-provoking and accessible. I'll share my favorite picks, ranging from concise works of classical philosophy to more engaging reads that blend storytelling with profound inquiries.

Concise and Practical Philosophical Works

For those who seek a more direct and concise dive into philosophical issues, these books are perfect:

Sam Harris: Free Will

Free Will is a compelling read that challenges one of the most fundamental questions in philosophy. Written by Sam Harris, a prominent neuroscientist and philosopher, the book is less than 100 pages long and packed with clear, digestible arguments that alter your perspective on free will. It is a great introduction to this critical idea, suitable for both academic and general audiences.

Michael Huemer: Dialogues on Ethical Vegetarianism

Michael Huemer's paper provides a casual and engaging view of the ethical debates surrounding vegetarianism. Written in a conversational format, it is easy to read and offers a taste of what it feels like to engage in philosophical discourse with established scholars. This paper, while not available in a book format, can be found online in parts:

Part 1

Part 2

Note: Parts 3 and 4 are not available for free online, so your best bet is to seek out a library or purchase from a reputable source.

Theoritical and Ethical Philosophical Works

If you're interested in diving deeper into theoretical ethics and meta-ethics, these works provide comprehensive discussions:

Practical Ethics by Peter Singer

Peter Singer is a renowned ethicist, and Practical Ethics is one of the most influential books in the field. It is well-suited for introductory ethics courses in both high school and college, covering a broad range of ethical issues such as abortion, animal rights, and more.

Russ Shafer-Landau: The Fundamentals of Ethics

Russ Shafer-Landau's book offers a detailed exploration of meta-ethics and moral theories. It addresses key questions such as the reality of objective morality and the different ethical theories like Utilitarianism, Kantianism, Social Contract Theory, and Feminist Ethics. This book is particularly useful for establishing a strong foundation in ethical theory.

Philosophical Works with a More Artistic Touch

For those who enjoy a blend of storytelling and philosophy, these books offer a unique perspective:

Albert Camus: The Myth of Sisyphus and Other Essays

While I found this book somewhat annoying to read, many teenagers appreciate their first philosophical encounters with Camus. It explores the existential question of suicide. Despite my personal preference, it is a classic and worth reading to understand different philosophical viewpoints.

David Benatar: The Human Predicament

David Benatar's work is one of my favorites. It addresses the concept of the human predicament, examining the philosophical arguments that life may be meaningless in some aspects but not others. Benatar's arguments are compelling and well-articulated, providing a nuanced view that differs significantly from Camus' mythical take.

Alan Moore: The Watchmen

The Watchmen is a graphic novel that indirectly tackles many philosophical themes, such as utilitarianism and existentialism. These themes are particularly engaging in a narrative format, making it a more accessible and enjoyable read for those who are somewhat skeptical of academic texts.

Albert Camus: The Stranger

Camus' novel is a powerful exploration of absurdism, although I preferred it less than The Myth of Sisyphus. It tells the story of a man who murders someone and is put on trial. This novel offers a practical application of Camus' philosophical ideas, making complex concepts more tangible.

Fyodor Dostoevsky: Crime and Punishment

This iconic novel is a lengthy but rewarding read, exploring the psychological and ethical landscapes of a murderer. It offers a deep dive into philosophical themes such as morality and justice. However, if you prefer something shorter, this may not be the best choice.

For further resources and affordable book purchases, you can explore the following website:

New Used Books from Thrift Books

Additional Resources

To supplement your reading, there are also great resources available on YouTube:

Philosophy Tube

The School of Life

The School of Life's channel is not as philosophically rigorous but offers interesting videos that provide introductory insights into philosophical questions.

Northern Diaries Digital Media

These channels can serve as a supplementary introduction to philosophical ideas and often provide engaging videos that can enhance your understanding of the topics.

I hope you find these recommendations helpful and enjoyable. If you have any questions or need further recommendations, feel free to ask!