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. The Fragility Of Goodness

   Luck and Ethics in Greek Tragedy and Philosophy

   

   This philosophical exploration delves into the complexities of human vulnerability and the role of fortune in shaping ethical life. It examines how ancient Greek literature and philosophy grapple with the unpredictability of life and the impact of external factors on moral character. Through a detailed analysis of works by figures such as Plato, Aristotle, and Sophocles, the narrative reveals the tension between rational control and the uncontrollable elements of existence, ultimately arguing for a nuanced understanding of human goodness that acknowledges the interplay of chance and choice.

   The 10473rd Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon

2. 2. The Monarchy Of Fear

   A Philosopher Looks at Our Political Crisis

   

   The book explores the pervasive role of fear in contemporary political and social life, examining how it can lead to division, anger, and the erosion of democratic values. It delves into the psychological roots of fear and its ability to manipulate public discourse, often resulting in scapegoating and the marginalization of vulnerable groups. By drawing on philosophical insights and historical examples, the author advocates for a more compassionate and understanding approach to addressing societal fears, emphasizing the importance of empathy, hope, and the cultivation of civic virtues to foster a more just and inclusive society.

3. 3. Not For Profit

   Why Democracy Needs the Humanities

   

   This insightful work delves into the critical role of humanities and liberal arts education in fostering democratic societies and nurturing well-rounded individuals. It argues against the prevailing trend of prioritizing economic growth over human development in educational systems worldwide. By emphasizing the importance of critical thinking, empathy, and creativity, the book advocates for an educational approach that prepares students not just as economic contributors, but as informed and engaged citizens capable of addressing complex global challenges.

4. 4. The Therapy Of Desire

   Theory and Practice in Hellenistic Ethics

   

   This insightful work delves into the therapeutic dimensions of ancient Greek philosophy, exploring how thinkers like Epicurus, Aristotle, and the Stoics approached the human condition with the aim of alleviating emotional suffering and fostering a life of flourishing. By examining the philosophical texts as practical guides for living, it reveals how these ancient teachings can be applied to modern life, offering a profound understanding of how reason and emotion can be harmonized to achieve personal well-being and ethical living.
5. 5. Women And Human Development

   The Capabilities Approach

   

   This influential work delves into the intersection of gender and development, advocating for a capabilities approach to human development that prioritizes individual freedoms and opportunities. It critiques traditional economic measures of progress, emphasizing the importance of enabling women to achieve their full potential by focusing on what they are actually able to do and be. The book argues for a shift in policy and practice to address gender inequalities, proposing a framework that considers diverse cultural contexts while maintaining a commitment to universal human rights and dignity.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org

6. 6. Cultivating Humanity

   A Classical Defense of Reform in Liberal Education

   

   This insightful work explores the transformative power of a liberal education in fostering a more inclusive and empathetic society. It argues for a curriculum that encourages critical thinking, global awareness, and the ability to understand and appreciate diverse perspectives. By drawing on classical philosophy and contemporary examples, the book makes a compelling case for education that not only imparts knowledge but also cultivates the moral and emotional capacities necessary for individuals to engage meaningfully in a pluralistic world. Through this approach, it envisions a society where individuals are better equipped to address complex social issues with compassion and reason.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org

7. 7. The Cosmopolitan Tradition

   A Noble but Flawed Ideal

   

   This insightful work delves into the rich history and evolution of cosmopolitan thought, tracing its roots from ancient Greek and Roman philosophies to its contemporary relevance. It explores the moral and ethical dimensions of cosmopolitanism, emphasizing the importance of global citizenship and the responsibilities individuals have towards humanity as a whole. The narrative critiques the limitations of nationalism and advocates for a more inclusive and empathetic worldview, urging readers to embrace a universal commitment to justice and human dignity across borders.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org

8. 8. Upheavals Of Thought

   The Intelligence of Emotions

   

   This profound exploration delves into the intricate relationship between emotions and human intelligence, challenging the traditional dichotomy that separates reason from feeling. By drawing on a rich tapestry of philosophical, psychological, and literary sources, the work argues that emotions are not merely irrational impulses but are deeply intertwined with our cognitive processes, shaping our ethical and moral judgments. Through a nuanced analysis, it posits that emotions are essential to our understanding of the world and our place within it, offering a compelling case for their integral role in the pursuit of a well-lived life.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org

9. 9. Hiding From Humanity: Disgust, Shame, And The Law

   Disgust, Shame, and the Law

   

   This work examines how disgust and shame—emotions tied to fears of contamination, bodily vulnerability, and social exclusion—have shaped legal norms, especially around sexuality, bodily taboos, and public morals. It argues that these emotions are unreliable guides for law because they often project prejudice onto marginalized groups and license humiliation, rather than protect legitimate interests. Instead, it urges that legal judgments be grounded in harm, consent, and equal respect, critiquing shame-based punishments and “politics of disgust” that rationalize discrimination. The book proposes a dignity- and capabilities-centered framework that limits coercion to preventing real harms while fostering inclusion in a liberal democracy.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org
10. 10. Justice For Animals

    Our Collective Responsibility

    

    A philosophical and practical call to treat nonhuman animals as rightful subjects of justice, it advances a capabilities approach that secures each creature’s opportunities to live, move, socialize, play, and flourish according to its form of life. It critiques utilitarian and contractarian views and proposes concrete reforms—ending factory farming and exploitative research, protecting habitats, granting legal standing through guardians, and coordinating global action on climate change and wildlife trade. Drawing on cases from elephants to fishes, it highlights animal agency and emotion and urges democracies to reimagine law and policy so that individuals across species are included within the circle of political concern.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org