The Philosophy of Aristotle (Signet Classics)

Two things make this book great: its selection and its translation.For a pocket size selection of Aristotle, this book is tops. It has sections from all of his major works, so it is useful for survey classes, or personal study. Of fundamental import is Metaphysics, which is the meta-basis for his thought. Also included are selections from his more popular Ethics and Politics, and lesser known Poetics.What drew me to this book was the translation. Most translations are really crude transliterations. Yes, it is important to be as faithful to the text as humanly possible. But the "ivory tower academeese" sucks the life out of vibrant philosophies.Creed and Wardmen avoid this problem entirely. This text was readable, and therefore enjoyable. It reminds me of the smooth prose of J. B Phillips or Edgar J. Goodspeed. It was like talking to a good friends, rather than a Latinized statue.For a more comprehensive selection, I would recommend "Basic Works of Aristotle" (ISBN: 0375757996), or getting the books individually.I love the cover!

There are many reasons why this little book is worth more than its weight in gold.The editor has done the most admirable job in selecting the best translations and in including appropriate excerpts from Aristotle's voluminous work.The brief editorial introductions to each of the great philosopher's "books" are gems of historical and interpretive insight and in themselves well worth the purchase.The flowing and flawless English of these brilliant translations make reading it irresistible while being sensitive to matetial where, as Aristotle himself said, language and reality are inseparable.The material is, of course, unsurpassed. Aristotle is simply the greatest mind to have ever walked on this Earth.If you have not experienced Aristotle and if you are willing to make the effort to understand some difficult concepts, you are virtually certain to gain the most important and fundamental knowledge through this book. Then your life will never be the same again.

There are many reasons why this little book is worth more than its weight in gold.The editor has done the most admirable job in selecting the best translations and in including appropriate excerpts from Aristotle's voluminous work.The brief editorial introductions to each of the great philosopher's "books" are gems of historical and interpretive insight and in themselves well worth the purchase.The flowing and flawless English of these brilliant translations make reading it irresistible while remaining sensitive to matetial where, as Aristotle himself said, language and reality are inseparable.The material itself is, of course, unsurpassed. Aristotle is simply the most admired mind to have ever appeared on this Earth. If you have not experienced Aristotle and if you are willing to make the effort to understand some difficult concepts, you will be rewarded with the most important and fundamental knowledge through this book. Then your life will never be the same again.