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Quote by Jostein Gaarder

“That fact that Athens could condemn its noblest citizen to death did more than make a profound impression on him. It was to shape the course of his entire philosophic endeavor.”

Quote by Jostein Gaarder

Work

Sophie's World

This book is a fictional narrative that follows the life of a young girl named Sophie, who is introduced to the world of philosophy through her mysterious mentor, Alberto. The story weaves together key philosophical ideas and thinkers throughout history, providing readers with an engaging and educational exploration of Western philosophy. more

Author

Jostein Gaarder
Jostein Gaarder

Jostein Gaarder is a Norwegian author known for his fantasy literature. His most famous work is 'Sophie's World', a philosophical novel that combines literary and philosophical elements, telling the story of a girl named Sophie's dialogue with a philosopher. Gaarder's works often explore profound philosophical and religious issues, enjoying great popularity among readers. more

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“At the end of the table, the secretary was reading the decision in some case, but in such a mournful and monotonous voice, that the condemned man himself would have fallen asleep while listening to it. The judge, no doubt, would have been the first of all to do so, had he not entered into an engrossing conversation while it was going on.”

“We must perpetually try to distinguish, however closely they get entwined by the subtle nature of the facts and by the secret importunity of our passions, those attitudes in a writer which we can honestly and confidently condemn as real evils, and those qualities in his writing which simply annoy and offend us as men of taste.”

“The chief deficiency I see in the skeptical movement is its polarization: Us vs. Them - the sense that we have a monopoly on the truth; that those other people who believe in all these stupid doctrines are morons; that if you're sensible, you'll listen to us; and if not, to hell with you. This is nonconstructive. It does not get our message across. It condemns us to permanent minority status.”

“Who is blameless? Only those that blame no one for aught that is, has been or may be. Only in creating hope, life, understanding, harmony, does one become blameless. For, as you understand, they that would be loved must show themselves lovely; they that would have friends must be a friend to others. For in the manner you treat others, you treat your Lord. Let that light which has aroused you be alive, awakened. Condemn no one. And as you come seeking, know, understand, as you create same in the lives of others so is it reflected in your own.”