Voltaire’s A Philosophical Dictionary, Volume 03 is a collection of philosophical essays written in the 18th century, covering a wide range of topics such as morality, ethics, human nature, religion, and society. This work aims to challenge conventional thinking and provoke critical reflection on human customs and beliefs. The opening of this volume addresses the theme of cannibalism, comparing the act of consuming human flesh to the cultural practices of violence and warfare. Drawing on historical accounts from various cultures, Voltaire suggests that killing in battle raises moral considerations similar to those surrounding cannibalism. He urges readers to reflect on the contradictions in societal norms regarding human life, questioning the treatment of the living versus the dead, and challenging readers to reconsider what constitutes true barbarity. Through a series of anecdotes and philosophical arguments, Voltaire critiques humanity’s darker impulses and the moral frameworks that surround them, delivering a sharp examination of ethical boundaries and their historical context.
A Philosophical Dictionary, Volume 03 | 경남교육 전자도서관
