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The Six Best Philosophy Books on Death

Lennox Johnson Books

From beginner-friendly introductions to classic philosophy books on death, this page features books to suit any learning style.  It’s important to note that there is no single best book on the topic of death. The best book for you will depend heavily on your preferred learning style and the amount of time/energy you’re willing to spend reading. For example, if you tend to find classic works of philosophy difficult to understand, you might want to start with a short, beginner-friendly introduction. If you prefer more depth, you can choose a …

Pleasure as the Highest Good – a short reading from Epicurus’ ‘Letter to Menoeceus’

Lennox Johnson reading

Introduction In this passage from the Letter to Menoeceus, Epicurus (341 – 270 B.C.), summarizes two of his most famous ethical doctrines: that death should not be feared and that pleasure is the highest good. However, pleasure for Epicurus is not the indulgence of fine foods, drinking beer, and sex. Pleasure is simply the absence of pain. So for Epicurus, a simple life of quiet contemplation is the most pleasurable and therefore ideal life. Reading Let no one be slow to seek wisdom when he is young nor weary in …

Socrates on Death and Virtue – a short reading from the ‘Apology’ by Plato

Lennox Johnson reading

“Men of Athens, I honor and love you; but I shall obey God rather than you, and while I have life and strength I shall never cease from the practice and teaching of philosophy” Introduction In the year 399 B.C., in Athens, Socrates was brought to trial on charges of impiety and corrupting the youth. He was found guilty and condemned to death. The Apology, written by Plato, is an account of Socrates’ trial. In the previous passage, Socrates recalls how an oracle once proclaimed that he was the wisest …