100,000+ Books, Games & Puzzles in-stock πŸ‡³πŸ‡Ώ

Auckland Bookstore open Sunday until 5pm! πŸŽ‰

Friendship

3.27 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 117 ratings, 20 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Friendship by A. C. Grayling is a thoughtful exploration of the concept of friendship, analysing its role and significance in human life through a philosophical and psychological lens. The book delves into historical perspectives and personal insights, examining how friendships shape and influence individuals and societies. Grayling considers the essential elements that form meaningful relationships, offering reflections on the evolving dynamics of human connection.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$3099
AVAILABLE WITH SUPPLIER Ships from our Auckland warehouse within 3-4 weeks

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you are intrigued by the exploration of human connections and want to delve into the philosophical and psychological aspects of friendship. It offers thoughtful insights into how friendships shape our lives and society, appealing to those who ponder about the essential nature of human relationships.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

What is the nature of friendship, and what is its significance in our lives? The author tracks historical ideas of friendship, gathers a diversity of friendship stories from the annals of myth and literature, and provides unexpected insights into our friends, ourselves, and the role of friendships in an ethical life.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

An entertaining and provocative investigation of friendship in all its variety, from ancient times to the present day

A central bond, a cherished value, a unique relationship, a profound human need, a type of love. What is the nature of friendship, and what is its significance in our lives? How has friendship changed since the ancient Greeks began to analyse it, and how has modern technology altered its very definition?

In this fascinating exploration of friendship through the ages, one of the most thought-provoking philosophers of our time tracks historical ideas of friendship, gathers a diversity of friendship stories from the annals of myth and literature, and provides unexpected insights into our friends, ourselves, and the role of friendships in an ethical life.

A. C. Grayling roves the rich traditions of friendship in literature, culture, art, and philosophy, bringing into his discussion familiar pairs as well as unfamiliarβ€”Achilles and Patroclus, David and Jonathan, Coleridge and Wordsworth, Huck Finn and Jim.

Grayling lays out major philosophical interpretations of friendship, then offers his own take, drawing on personal experiences and an acute awareness of vast cultural shifts that have occurred. With penetrating insight, he addresses internet-based friendship, contemporary mixed-gender friendships, how friendships may supersede family relationships, one’s duty within friendship, the idea of friendship to humanity, and many other topics of universal interest.

Series: Vices and Virtues

View all
  • Anger
    Tracing the story of anger from the Buddha to Twitter, Rosenwein provides a much-needed account of our changing and contradictory understandings of this emotion. All of us think we know when we are angry, and we are sure we can recognise anger in others as well. But this is only superficially true. We see anger through lenses coloured by what...
    Hardback
    $5399
    Available
    Ships in 3-4 weeks
  • Friendship
    An entertaining and provocative investigation of friendship in all its variety, from ancient times to the present day A central bond, a cherished value, a unique relationship, a profound human need, a type of love. What is the nature of friendship, and what is its significance in our lives? How has friendship changed since the ancient Greeks began to analyse...
    Paperback
    $3099
    Available
    Ships in 3-4 weeks
  • War
    War by A. C. Grayling is a renowned philosopher's challenge to long-held views on just wars, ethical conduct during war, the reasons wars occur, how they alter people and societies, and more. For residents of the twenty-first century, a vision of a future without warfare is almost inconceivable. Though wars are terrible and destructive, they also seem unavoidable. In this...
    Paperback
    $3099
    Available
    Ships in 3-4 weeks

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Friendship by A. C. Grayling is praised for serving as an intelligent and enriching tribute to the concept of friendship, exploring its virtues and evolving definitions in society. Reviewers appreciate Grayling's historical perspective and engaging exploration of friendship's literary and philosophical dimensions, stating that it offers fresh insights and restores depth to a term that may be undervalued today. His approachable and intellectually rigorous style helps illuminate friendship as an essential component of a meaningful life.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780300205367

Publisher: Yale University Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 15 July 2014

Country: United States

Imprint: Yale University Press

Audience: Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 16.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 210.0mm

Weight: 272g

Pages: 248

About the Author

A. C. Grayling is founder and master, New College of the Humanities, London. A multitalented and prolific author, he has written over thirty books on philosophy and other subjects while regularly contributing to The Times, Financial Times, Observer, Literary Review, and other publications. He lives in London.

Also by A. C. Grayling

View all
  • The History of Philosophy
    The History of Philosophy by A. C. Grayling is an ambitious and comprehensive exploration of the evolution of philosophical thought across different cultures and epochs. The book invites readers on an intellectual journey beginning with the early worldviews and moral teachings that emerged before the age of the Buddha, Confucius, and Socrates. Grayling meticulously guides us through the transformative periods...
    Paperback
    $2600
    Elsewhere:
    $3000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Philosophy and Life
    From the eminent philosopher, an answer to the big question: how should I live my life? How should I live my life? What values shall I live by? What sort of person should I be? What shall I aim for? In this summation of a lifetime thinking and writing about these great questions, A. C. Grayling explores with clarity and...
    Paperback
    $2700
    Elsewhere:
    $3000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Frontiers of Knowledge
    From the bestselling philosopher, a gripping history of science, thought, life on earth and the human mind - and what we might know in the future. In very recent times, humanity has learnt a vast amount about the universe, the past, and itself. But through our remarkable successes in acquiring knowledge, we have learned how much we have yet to...
    Paperback
    $3000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • For The People
    Around the world the foundations of democracy, freedom, civil liberties are being eroded – what can be done? Are we living through the end of the democratic moment? While democracy once seemed the bedrock of Western societies, the past few decades have revealed a fragile reality. Once liberal countries are turning to authoritarianism, wealthy individuals and corporations are interfering with...
    Paperback
    $3899
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Who Owns the Moon?
    Silicon for microchips; manganese for batteries; titanium for missiles. The moon contains a wealth of natural resources. So, as the Earth’s supplies have begun to dwindle, it is no surprise that the world’s superpowers and wealthiest corporations have turned their eyes to the stars. As this new Space Race begins, A.C. Grayling asks: who, if anyone, owns the moon? Or...
    Hardback
    $5499
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • The Challenge of the Future
    In an era of instability, how do we build a better future?We live in a time of unprecedented technological change and uncertainty, from AI to transhumanism. Humankind is faced with the question of what the future will be like and – more burningly – should be like. We confront increasing dangers from geopolitical instability, war and the climate crisis that...
    Paperback
    $3999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Who Owns the Moon?
    As the world's superpowers and corporations jostle for control in space, A. C. Grayling asks: who really owns our planet? Grayling brings satisfying order to daunting subjects. – Steven Pinker Silicon for microchips; manganese for batteries; titanium for missiles. The moon contains a wealth of natural resources. So, as the Earth’s supplies have begun to dwindle, it is no surprise...
    Paperback
    $5999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • War
    War by A. C. Grayling is a renowned philosopher's challenge to long-held views on just wars, ethical conduct during war, the reasons wars occur, how they alter people and societies, and more. For residents of the twenty-first century, a vision of a future without warfare is almost inconceivable. Though wars are terrible and destructive, they also seem unavoidable. In this...
    Paperback
    $3099
    Available
    Ships in 3-4 weeks
  • For the Good of the World
    Can we human beings agree on a set of values which will allow us to confront the numerous threats that we and our planet face? Or will we continue our disagreements, rivalries and antipathies, even as we collectively approach what, in the not impossible extreme, might be extinction? To answer these questions, A. C. Grayling considers the three most pressing...
    Hardback
    $3699
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • The Good State
    The foundations upon which our democracies stand are inherently flawed, vulnerable to corrosion from within. What is the remedy? A. C. Grayling makes the case for a clear, consistent, principled and written constitution, and sets out the reforms necessary – among them addressing the imbalance of power between government and Parliament, imposing fixed terms for MPs, introducing proportional representation, and...
    Hardback
    $3699
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • The Good State
    The foundations upon which our democracies stand are inherently flawed, vulnerable to corrosion from within. What is the remedy? A. C. Grayling makes the case for a clear, consistent, principled and written constitution, and sets out the reforms necessary – among them addressing the imbalance of power between government and Parliament, imposing fixed terms for MPs, introducing proportional representation and...
    Paperback
    $2499
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • For the Good of the World
    The three biggest challenges facing the world today, in A. C. Grayling’s view, are climate change, technology, and justice. In his timely new book, For the Good of the World, he asks: can human beings agree on a set of values that will allow us to confront the numerous threats facing the planet, or will we simply continue with our...
    Paperback
    $3499
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks

More from Philosophy & Psychology

View all
  • New Release
    The Winner's Formula
    The Neuroscience of Peak Performance, Success, and Happiness Why do some people win all the time? Why do others languish? From Olympians to Formula 1 drivers, addicts to billionaires, cognitive neuroscientist Dr Kerry Spackman has spent decades working to help people understand how to succeed. In The Winner's Formula, Kerry explains what goes on in your brain when you are...
    Paperback
    $3199
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Eat Your Ice Cream
    New Release
    Eat Your Ice Cream
    The New York Times bestseller that presents a bold new vision for living well and ageing with purpose from a world-renowned health expert THE INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER From a leading doctor and world-renowned health expert, the simple, uplifting and practical guide to cutting through the wellness noise, living well and ageing with purpose. β€˜Essential reading for anyone who...
    Paperback
    $3199
    Elsewhere:
    $4000
    (2)
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Man's Search For Meaning
    Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl is a profound, thought-provoking memoir and psychological exploration that delves into the harrowing experiences of life in Nazi concentration camps, intertwined with the author’s groundbreaking theories on existential psychology. The book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, offering a beacon of hope and a roadmap for finding purpose...
    Paperback
    $1800
    Elsewhere:
    $2100
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • New Release
    Inside the Box
    How to do more with less and use limits to stimulate creativity, innovation and collaboration, from the Sunday Times bestselling author of Range. We live in a world that gives us seemingly infinite choices and values freedom above all else. We have an unprecedented number of options regarding what to do, who to be and how to spend our time....
    Paperback
    $3000
    Elsewhere:
    $3900
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Atomic Habits
    Atomic Habits by James Clear is a transformative guide that demonstrates how tiny, incremental changes in behaviour can fundamentally reshape your life. Rather than urging sweeping transformations, Clear advocates for the compound effect of hundreds of small decisions. Whether it’s performing two push-ups a day, waking up five minutes earlier, or making a brief, focused phone call, these minuscule adjustments,...
    Paperback
    $3199
    Elsewhere:
    $4000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Body Keeps the Score
    The Body Keeps the Score by Dr Bessel van der Kolk is a compelling and compassionate exploration of the deep-seated impact of trauma on the human body and mind. This groundbreaking work delves into the complex causes of trauma and paints a vivid picture of the revolutionary treatments that are enabling countless individuals to reclaim their lives filled with purpose...
    Paperback
    $2400
    Elsewhere:
    $3000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • New Release
    Tell Me Where It Hurts
    Leading expert Rachel Zoffness bridges the gap between medicine and psychology to get to the heart of treating pain We can move the dial on pain Every one of us will experience pain, be it back pain, the pain of childbirth, or living in an ageing body. Not a single one of us will escape. But what if everything you...
    Hardback
    $6500
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Book of Awakening
    A new edition of the #1 NYT's bestseller by Mark Nepo, who has been called "one of the finest spiritual guides of our time" and "a consummate storyteller." Immerse yourself in The Book of Awakening, a compelling spiritual daybook by philosopher-poet and cancer survivor, Mark Nepo. This remarkable work is a profound manual for living a more deeply connected and...
    Paperback
    $3999
    Elsewhere:
    $4499
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Strangers
    The must-read memoir of the end of a marriage and the start of a personal revolution, based on the iconic Modern Love essay in the New York Times and perfect for fans of Glennon Doyle. "A beautifully written eulogy for the loss of a relationship" β€” Joyce Carol Oates How do we go on when a loved one betrays us?...
    Paperback
    $3299
    Elsewhere:
    $4000
    (2)
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Anxious Generation
    A powerful argument for reclaiming childhoodβ€”and all human relationshipsβ€”from the online world, from the influential social psychologist and international bestselling author. Jonathan Haidt has spent his career speaking truth and wisdom in some of the most difficult spacesβ€”communities polarised by politics and religion, campuses battling culture wars, and now the mental health emergency hitting teenagers today in many countries around...
    Paperback
    $2299
    Elsewhere:
    $3000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Strong Ground
    #1Β New York TimesΒ bestselling author BrenΓ© Brown returns with an urgent call to reimagine the essentials of courageous leadership. In a time when uncertainty runs deep and bluster, hubris and even cruelty are increasingly framed as acceptable leadership, Brown delivers practical, actionable insights that illuminate the mindsets and skill sets essential to reclaiming focus and driving growth through connection, discipline and...
    Hardback
    $4000
    Elsewhere:
    $5500
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Stimulated Mind
    A practical, empowering plan to boost your day-to-day brain function and prevent dementia - by a renowned neuroscientist and performance coach. 'From day one I was always blown away by Dr Tommy Wood's command of the science from which he communicates.' - Dr Peter Attia, bestselling author of Outlive- The Science and Art of Longevity 'As global health declines, Dr...
    Paperback
    $3800
    Elsewhere:
    $4500
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 80,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.