Anyone know the best books on this subject?

Question

I am interested in philosophical books about humanity and basically the higher purpose of us human beings, besides being slaves to society.

Anyone know of any books that are like that. (ie Jack London, etc.)

Answer 1

If you want something that is directly about philosophy, try Sophie's World, by Jostein Gaarder. My German cousin gave it to me, so I'm not sure where you can get it, maybe the internet. It is rather interesting, though the writing style is not very good.

Now if you want a book that is exactly about humanity and not being slaves to society, try the Uglies Series, by Scott Westerfield. The first book is Uglies, the second Pretties, then Specials, and last Extras. I'm almost through with the series, and they are just simply amazing.

Have you ever read Lois Lowry's books? The Giver? Gathering Blue? The Silent Boy? Those are all very good.

Hmm...what else? Oh! I think you might like The City of Ember, by Jeanne DuPrau.

Well that is all I can think of right now, hope I was helpful.

=Jean

Answer 2

The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand

Anything by Chuck Palahniuk - he wrote fight club

the stranger- albert camus

They're fiction.

I know a lot more, but none come to mind at this point.

1984 is really good book, as well.

Answer 3

Anything by Nietzsche, Krishnamurti, Castaneda, Osho (Bhagwan Shri Rajneesh). For starters.

Answer 4

This might sound weird, but The Art of War is a very philosophical book. It really breaks down the human element in its purest form.  

Answer 5

The first thing that comes to mind is "Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer.    It's basically the (true) story of a guy who lives by the same ideals that London talks about in his books.  Very good read.

And if that's not quite what you were looking for, most chapters of the book are prefaced by quotes/passages from Jack London-esque books that the main character highlighted, which may give you more ideas.

Answer 6

What about the island of Dr. Moraeu?