Book Review: The Philosopher Queens: by Rebecca Buxton and Lisa Whiting

Philosophy fan? No, I’m not really either but I really enjoyed this next book.

Goodreads Blurb

The Philosopher Queens: The lives and legacies of philosophy’s unsung women by Rebecca Buxton and Lisa Whiting

The history of philosophy has not done women justice: you’ve probably heard of Plato, Kant, Nietzsche and Locke – but what about Hypatia, Arendt, Oluwole and Young? The Philosopher Queens is a long-awaited book about women in philosophy by women in philosophy. It brings to centre stage twenty prominent women whose ideas have had a profound – but for the most part uncredited – impact on the world. You’ll learn about Ban Zhao, the first woman historian in ancient Chinese history; Angela Davis, perhaps the most iconic symbol of the American Black Power Movement; Azizah Y. al-Hibri, who examined the intersection of Islamic law and gender equality; and many more. For all those studying philosophy and wondering where the women are or for newcomers who just want to learn a thing or two about the history of ideas – it’s time to meet the philosopher queens.

Review

I chose to review this book not because I am big into philosophy but because I like to promote great women who have been forgotten about. The Philosopher Queens has many and I’m very glad that their work has been brought into the spotlight again.

The Philosopher Queens is a quick and easy read, with each chapter focusing on a woman that was important to the growth of philosophy. The chapters cover the work of each woman in an easy-to-understand manner meaning I was able to learn a great deal without becoming too confused. Also, while some of the women I had heard of before, others i had no clue who they were and was surprised how important their work has shaped the world today.

The Philosopher Queens is a wonderful book for those who want to learn a bit more about philosophy, or some of the great female minds this world has produced.

The Philosopher Queens is available to purchase now.

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.