Book Notes/Examined Lives: From Socrates to Nietzsche

Examined Lives: From Socrates to Nietzsche

by James Miller

"Examined Lives: From Socrates to Nietzsche" by James Miller explores the philosophical tradition of self-examination, tracing its evolution through the thoughts of key thinkers from Socrates to Nietzsche. Miller delves into how these philosophers grappled with the nature of the self and the importance of introspection in understanding human existence. The book emphasizes the relevance of their ideas in contemporary discussions about personal identity and ethical living.

10 curated highlights from this book

Key Insights & Memorable Quotes

Below are the most impactful passages and quotes from Examined Lives: From Socrates to Nietzsche, carefully selected to capture the essence of the book.

The unexamined life is not worth living.
To know thyself is the beginning of wisdom.
Life without the experience of philosophical reflection is like a ship without a compass.
The pursuit of truth is an essential part of the human experience.
Knowledge is not a mere accumulation of facts, but a transformative endeavor.
Socrates taught that an examined life leads to virtue.
Nietzsche challenges us to embrace our inner chaos.
The essence of philosophy is to question everything.
Philosophers often speak in riddles to reveal deeper truths.
The act of thinking critically is a form of liberation.