Barrister-turned-writer Diana Janney is the author of internationally acclaimed, philosophical and thought-provoking fiction. Here she chooses five works underpinned by philosophy to get you thinking.
Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse
A novel about a journey of self-discovery by the son of a Brahmin during the time of Gautama, the Buddha. When Siddhartha meets the Buddha, he chooses not to join him as he believes in the importance of finding his own way. He will be his own pupil.
Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle
One of the greatest philosophers of all time. This is a fascinating read for anyone interested in reflecting on virtue, friendship and the ingredients of the most worthwhile life. A favourite philosopher of mine ever since my years at UCL as a philosophy graduate and postgraduate, Aristotle features as a role model in my latest novel.
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint Exupery
A timeless classic for readers of all ages. The learning process comes from what the young prince, a boy, teaches the adult pilot narrator who crashes in the Sahara Desert. A story about love, loss and much more.
Four Quartets by TS Eliot
Thought-provoking poetry, beautifully expressed. Read and savour.
Groundwork of the Metaphysic of Morals by Immanuel Kant
Despite its small size, this book’s influence has been truly great. Its subject is the moral law, the supreme principle of morality. A must-read for anyone who wants to learn more about ethics.
