To Think Like God: Pythagoras and Parmenides. the Origins of Philosophy

Beautiful book. Superb style. Captivating content. A one of a kind book that can be enjoyed by everyone! I am an avid reader of ancient Greek and Roman history, my passion living on past my University days. I can honestly say that it has been quite a while since I have enjoyed a book on philosophy as much as I did this one. The combination of ancient philosophy and ancient history is in near perfect form throughout this book. I tend to tire of pure philosophy texts quickly, if not immediately, but To Think Like God held my attention the entire way through. It's a brilliant departure from a pretentious philosophy essay or a mind-numbing history text, both of which can be found in abundance these days. I think that many have forgotten the importance of weaving history into philosophy. This breaks that boring trend and provides the reader with insights to early philosophy, relevant historical information, even some rarely known, intriguing history bits are sewn in; Not to mention the vivid illustrations that, page after page, bring an unheard of vibrancy to philosophy and history alike. I must commend the author on his writing style, for I seldom find myself immersed in a book so fluid. His language and structure are married beautifully. A pure joy to read! I keep this book on my coffee table and have yet to find a person who neglects to take a peek at it when visiting. It's interesting and exceptional no matter the situation; I'd recommend this to anyone with a valid brain wave.

Hermann illuminates lesser-known Greek figure Parmenides in this carefully constructed treatise on the early years of philosophy. Beginning with his more famous contemporary, Pythagoras, the book delves into the curious sides of Pythagoreanism, exposing the vulnerabilities of this calculating thinker. Clearly, the author prefers the less exacting measures of Parmenides, who sought to include more than he eliminated. Side by side, the two philosophers make an interesting comparison, like pairing a physicist with a politician. Hermann attempts to personalize these historical figures whenever possible. Sharp illustrations bolster the narrative, carrying it beyond the dry prose often found in other texts.