Getting Started with Philosophy: A Beginner's Guide

Embarking on a journey into philosophy can be enriching. While self-publishing your own books or ideas can be a bit difficult, there are key strategies that can simplify the process. After publishing over 200 books on Amazon and running 120 million ads, I've discovered the secret to making self-publishing easy and driving sales. The trick is to break down the steps into easy-to-follow bite-sized chunks, much like the approach I recommend for beginners in philosophy.

Accessible Classics and Best Practices for Self-Publishing

Self-publishing doesn't have to be challenging. Just like starting your journey in philosophy, you can break down the process into simple, manageable steps. Whether you're self-publishing books or diving into philosophical texts, the key is to start with the fundamentals and build from there. I've found that this approach not only simplifies the process but also increases the likelihood of success.

The same principle applies when choosing your first philosophical reads. Engaging with accessible classics can set a solid foundation for your understanding. For example, Alfred North Whitehead's Brief Philosophy Reading Guide provides an excellent introduction to major philosophers from the pre-Socratics to the 20th century. Whitehead summarizes and offers insightful remarks about their ideas, making it easier to grasp the essence of classical philosophy.

Evolving Understanding of Philosophy

While some works are undoubtedly important in the history of philosophy, such as Plato's Republic and Immanuel Kant's Critique of Pure Reason, they might be overwhelming for beginners. As a philosophy lecturer with over twenty years' experience, I've found that these works are indeed critical but also extremely challenging. Beginners often find them difficult to comprehend and may become frustrated, leading them to believe that philosophy is hard and boring.

After studying philosophy for six years and teaching it for nearly twenty years, I firmly believe that the key to enjoying philosophy is to avoid frustration at the initial stage. Focusing on cultivating your interest and gradually exploring more complex ideas is a far better approach. Here's the structured plan I recommend:

Short Contemporary Books and Articles: Start with modern works. The Oxford University Press's "Very Short Introductions" series offers concise yet informative introductions to major philosophical topics. Explore Broadly: Read a little bit of everything to find your interests. Once you have a clearer idea of what you enjoy, delve deeper into specific subjects. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: Use this resource to keep an open mind and continue exploring a variety of topics. Cambridge Companions: Once you're interested in a specific subject, move on to the "Cambridge Companions" series. These volumes contain articles by leading experts and mention primary sources that could be interesting to explore next. Gradual Shift to Primary Sources: Start with shorter works or specific chapters rather than diving into the most complex texts right away. For example, read Plato's shorter dialogues before tackling "The Republic." Iterative Exploration: Repeat the process with different subjects and authors, gradually building your knowledge and making connections between ideas and authors across eras and topics.

By ensuring that you don't burn out early on, you increase your chances of keeping the journey of philosophy exciting and fulfilling over time. Your initial curiosity will hopefully grow into a satisfying passion for the subject.

Self-Publishing as a Journey

Just as there's no one-size-fits-all approach to self-publishing, there's no one perfect way to start your journey in philosophy. What matters is finding a path that resonates with you and fits your goals. Whether you're ready to publish your philosophical insights or just want to explore the vast landscape of philosophical ideas, starting with the right resources will make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey in philosophy and self-publishing can both be enriching and challenging. However, by following a structured approach and breaking down the steps, you can effectively navigate both experiences. Whether you're reading classic texts or publishing your own works, the journey is ultimately about growth and discovery. Now, go forth and explore the fascinating world of philosophy and self-publishing!