DRB2008

The Two Most Important Books

I consider these to be the two most important books:

  • Adam Smith, The Theory of Moral Sentiments (1854)
  • Charles Darwin, The Expression of Emotions in Man and Animals (1872)


The Theory of Moral Sentiments (New Edition) Expression of the Emotions In Man and Anim
Perhaps at a later time I will try to explain why . . . 

Notice how old they are!  Why haven't we made more "progress?"

Do you have others you would nominate?

But for now, in keeping with a half-hearted resolution, we are going to the gym!
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Iris
[this is good]
Isn't it odd that science hasn't broken out with revelations for such a long time? Instead of sweeping statements, today's scientific thinkers contribute modest but vital puzzle-pieces, as if they are still rocking in the wake of big ideas from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Thank you for the thoughtul recommendations!
DRB2008
I guess it is probably fair to say that there have been "big breakthroughs" in physics. And perhaps in some other fields--I am not a scientist myself.
'
But I do think that these two books, which essentially have to do with the foundations of emotion in man and animals, and their expression and consequences, really are fundamental. Well over 100 years old, I doubt that many people are familiar with either. But truly, they are worth examining!

Thanks for your note!


Anthony
Two good choices of book, although I don't think it's fair to say that there have been no 'revelations' on the subject of human nature over the past century. Without a nod to the field of psychology (don't want to be kicked off for steering away from evolution) Matt Ridley's 'The Red Queen' gives a superb account of the role of gender and morality in modern humanity from an evolution standpoint. I think a lot of ground was made up in this field in the 60's and 70's.
DRB2008
Yes, I agree that The Red Queen is a fine book, and certainly there have been many others of value. But, in my own mind, the two I named are the foundation, the basis.

That's my view . . . though I doubt either one would be selected by very many readers or scholars. Still, over the years, I have bought way too many books! And there are so many I like! But these two still continue to stick out in my mind as being truly exceptional. I wish they were more widely read, or referenced.

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