The Meaning of Life and the Great Philosophers

"Science cannot answer every question that interests us."

When you search on Amazon for books on the meaning of life, you’ll find countless titles, but this one is a must for a comprehensive deep dive. 

The Meaning of Life and the Great Philosophers, edited by Stephen Leach and James Tartaglia, stands out as an essential read for anyone interested in existential questions. Unlike other books that offer broad overviews or narrow philosophical arguments, this volume brings together the insights of some of the greatest thinkers in history, analyzed by leading contemporary philosophers.

With 35 chapters contributed by contemporary philosophers, the book examines a broad spectrum of ideas, from classical Western philosophy to Eastern thought, and even includes reflections on the work of figures not traditionally classified as philosophers, such as Buddha and Confucius.

The book’s structure is one of its strengths. Rather than merely offering a chronological overview of philosophical perspectives on the meaning of life, each chapter is dedicated to a particular philosopher or intellectual tradition, explored by a contemporary thinker. 

One of the key takeaways from the volume is the nuanced distinction between the meaning of life and meaning in life—a distinction that some thinkers regard as profound and others as incoherent. 

This issue is central to many of the contributions, as authors grapple with whether meaning is external to human existence (as in religious traditions) or constructed through human agency and social structures. 

The book also acknowledges the limitations of scientific explanations in addressing existential questions, as noted in the preface, where the editors highlight that "science cannot answer every question that interests us."

One of the book’s most substantial aspects is its accessibility. Though philosophical, it is designed for a general readership and successfully presents complex ideas clearly and engagingly. Each chapter is well-written, authoritative, and structured to guide the reader through different philosophical traditions with lucidity.

However, a few issues arose during the execution. Given that each chapter follows a similar format—introducing a philosopher, outlining their ideas, and connecting them to the meaning of life —the book can sometimes feel repetitive. Some contributors seem to adhere to a rigid formula, which, while useful for consistency, risks making the reading experience somewhat monotonous. 

Overall, The Meaning of Life and the Great Philosophers is an engaging and valuable contribution to the philosophical literature on the meaning of life. 

While some sections feel repetitive, and certain philosophical connections appear weaker than others, the book remains a comprehensive and thought-provoking collection. 

It successfully balances depth with accessibility, making it a recommended read for both academic and general audiences interested in existential philosophy. Despite some editorial shortcomings, this volume deserves a place on the bookshelf of anyone intrigued by the enduring question of life’s meaning.

Link for order: https://www.amazon.com/Meaning-Life-Great-Philosophers/dp/1138220957