The Great Guide

“A bright, engaging, reliable introduction to Hume’s life and work.[…] As a monument to Hume, Baggini’s book is less contentious than a tower block — and more edifying.”—Kieran Setiya, LA Review of Books

“With his characteristic clarity, Julian Baggini has given us a much-needed and extremely readable account of the work of David Hume. It is hard to imagine a better introduction to Hume’s world and the relevance of his thought to the questions of our time.”—Alexander McCall Smith, author of The Sunday Philosophy Club

“Marvellous. This enlightening account of Hume’s life and thought shows how philosophy’s true worth is measured not on the strength of the argument but on the strength of the life that it inspires. Hume once said, ‘A wise man proportions his belief to the evidence.’ In the case of The Great Guide, the evidence is clear: Julian Baggini is one of the most delightful writers of philosophy today.”—John Kaag, author of Sick Souls, Healthy Minds: How William James Can Save Your Life

“A fascinating mix of biography, travelogue, and ideas. This book will enhance Baggini’s reputation as one of the most elegant writers in the world of philosophy.”—David Edmonds, author of The Murder of Professor Schlick: The Rise and Fall of the Vienna Circle

“This unique book is filled with useful maxims for everyday life, illuminating Hume’s world while also adding a contemporary touch. Baggini’s intermingling of life and philosophy, both past and present, makes for an engaging read.”—Angela M. Coventry, author of Hume: A Guide for the Perplexed

“In this well-written and accessible book, Baggini shows how Hume’s life illustrates and accords with his philosophical standpoints, deftly navigating a good many of the central themes of Hume’s work.”—Simon Blackburn, author of What Do We Really Know? The Big Questions of Philosophy

“In this enthralling book, Julian Baggini masterfully interweaves biography with intellectual history and philosophy to give us a complete vision of Hume’s guide to life.” Arab News

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