In the sixteen spirited conversations of The Inner Philosopher, Lou Marinoff and Daisaku Ikeda revive philosophy as an accessible source of wisdom and courage. In their telling, the philosophies of Shakyamuni Buddha, Lao Tzu, Confucius, Aristotle, Socrates, Epicurus, and others are as essential now as when first articulated more than 2,000 years ago. The authors celebrate these philosophies as optimistic and empowering. Philosophy, they say, should do nothing less than help us draw forth the inner strength needed to face life’s challenges and hardships. The Inner Philosopher shows that wisdom is never out of reach and opportunities for positive transformation are many.
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In this day and age, when uncertainty reigns along with various other dictates that challenge all aspects of human endeavor, it is essential that The Inner Philosopher become a part of world literature and world dialogue. The content within takes one to the front lines of life’s grand adventure of the enigmatic human condition, and further on to an open and revealing dialogue, unraveling the mystery of “us.”
– Wayne Shorter, jazz composer and saxophonist, winner of nine Grammy awards, and National Endowment of the Arts Jazz Master
These sparkling and engaging conversations make a compelling case for the importance of philosophy in our lives and in our world. Daisaku Ikeda and Lou Marinoff are ideal guides to the nature and function of wisdom, from the times of the ancients through the challenges we all face now. This is a book that should be read by leaders, teachers, students, and adults of all ages.
– Tom Morris, Author of Philosophy for Dummies, If Aristotle Ran General Motors, and If Harry Potter Ran General Electric
In this exhilarating dialogue Daisaku Ikeda and Lou Marinoff demonstrate the enormous power of practical, engaged philosophy. They inspire their readers to break the bonds of authority in order to develop their own inner resources – to embrace even the most difficult of life’s questions with intellectual and emotional honesty, courage, discipline, and generosity.
– Larry A. Hickman, Center for Dewey Studies, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Do not pick up this book without a highlighter in your hand! You will want to return to many individual statements. Better still plan a reading schedule to allow for each conversation, time to let the book drop into you lap while you ruminate on the most recently read of portions that will call you to do so. These conversations between Lou Marinoff and Daisaku Ikeda are rife with simple sentences that articulate shimmering complexities that light up the mind and move the reader to the contemplative reflection that is the medium of philosophy. Each exchange offers multiple keys to the doors of the reader’s “inner philosopher.”
– Betty A. Reardon, Founding Director Emeritus, International Institute on Peace Education