This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Candide

   or Optimism

   

   "Candide" is a satirical novel that follows the adventures of a young man, Candide, who is living a sheltered life in an Edenic paradise and being indoctrinated with Leibnizian optimism by his mentor. When he is expelled from the paradise for kissing a baron's daughter, he embarks on a journey around the world, witnessing the horrors of war, natural disasters, and human cruelty. Throughout his journey, Candide maintains his optimistic philosophy, despite the constant hardships he faces, ultimately concluding that one must cultivate their own garden, a metaphor for taking control of one's own destiny.

   The 80th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. Zadig

   or, The Book of Fate

   

   The book is an Enlightenment-era philosophical novel that follows the adventures of its eponymous hero, a young nobleman in ancient Babylonia. Through a series of misfortunes and experiences, including love, injustice, and chance, the protagonist explores themes of fate, free will, and the search for truth. His journey is marked by encounters with a diverse cast of characters, each representing different aspects of society and human nature. The protagonist's wisdom and observations on human folly and the ironies of life offer a satirical critique of the social and political systems of the day, ultimately advocating for enlightenment and reason over superstition and tyranny.

   The 3373rd Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. Correspondence

   

   "Correspondence" is a collection of letters written by a renowned philosopher and writer, providing an intimate insight into his life and thoughts. The book offers an unparalleled glimpse into the author's relationships, conversations, and debates with other leading figures of the Enlightenment era. It also reveals his views on a range of subjects including politics, religion, and literature, making it a rich resource for understanding the intellectual climate of the 18th century.

   The 3615th Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. Letters On England

   Philosophical Letters

   

   The book is a series of essays written in the form of letters that offer a critical examination of various aspects of English society, including its politics, religion, and culture, during the early 18th century. The author, a prominent Enlightenment thinker, contrasts the relative freedom and tolerance he observes in England with the more rigid and hierarchical society of his native country. Through his observations, he praises the English constitutional monarchy, the country's scientific achievements, and its respect for individual liberties, while also reflecting on the nature of trade, the role of the press, and the philosophies of notable English figures. The work is notable for its advocacy of religious tolerance and freedom of thought, and it played a significant role in promoting English ideas to a Continental audience.

   The 4163rd Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. An Essay On Universal History, The Manners, And Spirit Of Nations

   From the Reign of Charlemagne to the Age of Louis XIV

   

   This work offers a comprehensive examination of world history, focusing on the cultural, social, and intellectual developments that have shaped civilizations over time. It critiques traditional historical narratives by emphasizing the importance of understanding the customs, beliefs, and spirit of different nations. The author advocates for a more inclusive and critical approach to history, highlighting the interconnectedness of global events and the influence of philosophical ideas on societal progress. Through this analysis, the text seeks to illuminate the broader patterns and forces that have driven human history, promoting a vision of history that transcends nationalistic and Eurocentric perspectives.

   The 6370th Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. The Lisbon Earthquake

   An Inquiry into the Causes of Natural Disasters

   

   The book in question is a philosophical exploration of the problem of evil, prompted by the catastrophic 1755 earthquake that devastated Lisbon. Through a series of poetic verses, the author grapples with the theological and moral questions raised by such natural disasters, challenging the optimistic belief that this is the best of all possible worlds and questioning the justice of a benevolent deity allowing such suffering. The work is a profound meditation on human suffering, divine providence, and the limits of philosophical and religious consolation in the face of overwhelming disaster.

   The 7199th Greatest Book of All Time

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7. 7. Micromégas

   A Philosophical History

   

   "Micromégas" is a philosophical satire that tells the story of a giant from a planet circling the star Sirius, and his adventures traveling through the universe. Along with a companion from Saturn, who is also of considerable size though smaller than Micromégas, they visit Earth. Here, they interact with humanity, initially struggling to even perceive humans due to the vast difference in scale. The story explores themes of perspective, the relative nature of size and intelligence, and the limitations of human understanding. Through witty dialogue and ironic situations, the narrative critiques the arrogance and ignorance of human institutions and philosophies, highlighting the enlightenment ideals of reason and empirical knowledge.

   The 13327th Greatest Book of All Time

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8. 8. Candide And Other Stories

   The Portable Voltaire

   

   Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous world, this collection of stories follows the journey of an optimistic young man who is thrust into a series of misadventures that challenge his unwavering belief in the inherent goodness of the world. Through encounters with a colorful cast of characters, including philosophers, nobles, and common folk, the protagonist navigates a landscape rife with absurdity, injustice, and irony. Each tale serves as a sharp critique of societal norms and philosophical doctrines, ultimately questioning the nature of happiness and the human condition in a world fraught with chaos and unpredictability.

   The 16938th Greatest Book of All Time

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