Community Reviews

Rating(3.7 / 5.0, 41 votes)
5 stars
8(20%)
4 stars
12(29%)
3 stars
21(51%)
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41 reviews
July 15,2025
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It was my first real book and I was only 14 years old. Now, at 45 years old, I wanted to reread it and it seemed even more beautiful to me. I adore De Crescenzo. His books and his films have accompanied my adolescence until today. He made me love philosophy without knowing it and made me know philosophy without ever making me understand it. Part of my culture and my love for reading is thanks to this book of his that is now present in my life.

This book holds a special place in my heart. It was like a gateway to a new world of ideas and emotions. As I reread it, I was able to see the depth and beauty of De Crescenzo's writing more clearly. His words have the power to touch the soul and make you think about life in a different way.

I am grateful to have discovered this book at such a young age. It has had a profound impact on my intellectual and emotional development. It has taught me the importance of curiosity, of asking questions, and of seeking knowledge. It has also shown me the beauty and power of language.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves to read and is interested in philosophy and life. It is a timeless classic that will continue to inspire generations to come.
July 15,2025
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De Crescenzo, renowned for his engaging style and vast culture, manages to shed light on complex figures such as Thales, Anaximander, and Parmenides, who were both scientists and philosophers.

However, the book is not without flaws. At times, the language becomes overly pompous and heavy, especially when delving into the details of the scientific and abstract concepts that the pre-Socratics dealt with. This can be an obstacle for those who are approaching Greek philosophy for the first time. Nevertheless, De Crescenzo's pen manages to temper even the most difficult passages with his typical subtle humor and a lucidity that never descends into pedantry.

What makes this reading particularly enjoyable is precisely the author's ability to balance the more technical parts with anecdotes, acute observations, and his unmistakable irony. His capacity to navigate the depths of philosophy without ever losing touch with the reader is a distinctive feature, which makes the work accessible and interesting even to those who do not have an advanced philosophical background.

Luciano De Crescenzo, with his narrative talent and a deep knowledge of Neapolitan culture, manages to infuse great vitality into the text. His writing, although dealing with complex concepts, always maintains a lightness that invites reflection without ever being too heavy.

July 15,2025
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A fun and engaging approach to the beginnings of Greek philosophy. Highly recommended for the curious who are afraid to approach the life of the first philosophers and believe they won't understand a word. The author manages to hook with his way of telling the most outstanding events of each philosopher.


It offers a unique perspective on the early days of philosophy, making it accessible even to those who have little prior knowledge. The stories are presented in an entertaining manner, which helps to keep the reader's interest.


Whether you are a student of philosophy or simply someone who is interested in learning more about this fascinating subject, this book is definitely worth a read. It provides a great introduction to the world of Greek philosophy and will leave you wanting to know more.

July 15,2025
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The best possible textbook for approaching Greek philosophy

It is both fun and rigorous, without shortcuts that create insurmountable voids.

There must have been a previous edition that I read.

This textbook serves as an excellent guide to the fascinating world of Greek philosophy. It manages to strike a perfect balance between engaging the reader with interesting examples and maintaining a high level of academic rigor.

The absence of shortcuts is a crucial aspect, as it forces the reader to truly grapple with the complex ideas and concepts presented.

By avoiding the creation of insalvable voids, the textbook ensures a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of Greek philosophy.

The fact that there was a previous edition that I read attests to the quality and popularity of this textbook.

It has clearly stood the test of time and continues to be a valuable resource for students and enthusiasts of Greek philosophy alike.
July 15,2025
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In the wait to start more substantial books, I wanted to relax a bit by listening to this pleasant introduction to the presocratic philosophers, in a divulgative book accessible to all (and more all than that is not possible), rich in strange anecdotes about their lives, which in my opinion is the nicest part of the book.


Between one philosopher and another, there is also the insertion of some curious Neapolitan character, with a very particular vision of the world, told in the same ironic way, which does not look out of place beside the famous names in the history of philosophy.


This book offers a unique and engaging perspective on the presocratic philosophers. It not only presents their ideas and theories but also gives us a glimpse into their personal lives through those interesting anecdotes. The addition of the Neapolitan character adds an extra layer of charm and makes the reading even more enjoyable. It's a great way to unwind and learn something new at the same time.

July 15,2025
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July 15,2025
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The best guidebook for an easy-to-understand exploration of the complex matter of philosophy beginnings is a valuable asset.

It simplifies the intricate concepts and theories that form the foundation of philosophy.

This guidebook presents the subject matter in a clear and accessible manner, making it suitable for both beginners and those with some prior knowledge.

It breaks down the complex ideas into digestible chunks, allowing readers to gradually build their understanding.

With its engaging writing style and practical examples, the guidebook makes learning about philosophy an enjoyable experience.

Whether you are interested in the history of philosophy, different philosophical schools of thought, or the application of philosophical principles in daily life, this guidebook has something to offer.

It provides a comprehensive overview of the subject while also delving into specific areas of interest.

So, if you're looking for a reliable and user-friendly guide to the beginnings of philosophy, look no further than this best guidebook.

July 15,2025
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All I remember is Pythagoras, the superstar.

Pythagoras is a renowned figure in the history of mathematics. He is famous for his theorem that relates to the sides of a right triangle.

His ideas and discoveries had a profound impact on the development of mathematics and other fields.

Not only was he a great mathematician, but he was also a philosopher and a leader.

He founded a school where his followers studied and explored various aspects of knowledge.

The legacy of Pythagoras lives on today, and his work continues to inspire generations of students and scholars.

Whenever I think of mathematics, Pythagoras always comes to my mind as a true superstar.

His contributions have made a significant difference in our understanding of the world around us.

We should all remember and appreciate the great work of Pythagoras.
July 15,2025
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Saggio is a concept that holds great significance in various fields. It can refer to a sample or a trial, allowing for the exploration and evaluation of different ideas or methods.

In art, saggio can be seen as an experimental piece that pushes the boundaries of creativity. It gives artists the freedom to try new techniques and express themselves in unique ways.

In science, saggio is essential for conducting research and making discoveries. Scientists use samples and trials to test hypotheses and gather data, which helps them understand the natural world better.

Moreover, saggio can also have a personal meaning. It can represent a person's attempt to step out of their comfort zone and try something new. It is through these saggio experiences that we can grow and learn.

Overall, saggio is a powerful tool that enables us to explore, experiment, and discover. It encourages us to take risks and embrace new opportunities, leading to personal and professional growth.
July 15,2025
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It is very interesting to try to understand better the philosophers and simplify their concepts. Philosophy is a profound and complex field, filled with the thoughts and ideas of great minds throughout history. By delving into their works and attempting to make sense of their concepts, we can gain valuable insights into the nature of reality, ethics, and human existence. However, the language and ideas of philosophers can often be difficult to understand. This is where the challenge lies in simplifying their concepts without losing their essence. It requires careful study, analysis, and the ability to break down complex ideas into more digestible parts. Through this process, we can not only gain a better understanding of philosophy but also apply its principles to our own lives.

July 15,2025
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I was looking for a book that would bring me closer with lightness to my old classical studies.

From the very first pages, I fell in love with it and it has increased even more my desire to take up those studies again.

I am enthusiastic!

This book has truly been a wonderful discovery for me. It has a charm and a style that makes reading it a pleasure.

The way it presents the classical ideas and concepts is both engaging and accessible.

It has reignited my passion for the classics and has made me eager to explore further.

I can't wait to see where this newfound enthusiasm will lead me.

Maybe it will open up new opportunities for me to deepen my knowledge and understanding of the classical world.

Overall, I am extremely happy with this book and would highly recommend it to anyone with an interest in classical studies.

July 15,2025
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A gentle walk along the lands that gave birth to the pre-Socratic philosophers, thus seeking to tell their way of seeing the world.

These ancient thinkers, with their unique perspectives and profound insights, have left an indelible mark on the history of philosophy.

As we stroll through these landscapes, we can almost imagine them engaged in deep contemplation, pondering the mysteries of the universe.

Their ideas about the nature of reality, the origin of things, and the role of humanity in the world continue to inspire and challenge us today.

By exploring their homeland, we gain a deeper understanding of their intellectual context and the forces that shaped their thinking.

This journey allows us to connect with the past and appreciate the rich heritage of philosophical thought that has been passed down through the ages.

It is a fascinating exploration that invites us to question our own assumptions and expand our own horizons.

So, let us embark on this leggera passeggiata and discover the wisdom of the pre-Socratic philosophers.

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