I haven't read any fantasy or science fiction in ages, and I'm really craving the chance to dive into a compelling new world or explore some thought-provoking concepts.
Ideally, I'd love something with a strong philosophical dimension—whether it's a standalone novel or a series. I have a degree in philosophy and I'm a huge fan of philosophical fiction.
I'm pretty well-versed in the classics (Herbert, Le Guin, Dick, Lem, and the like), so I'd be particularly interested in more recent works—say, from the last decade or two.
Would really appreciate any recommendations for philosophically rich fantasy or sci-fi.
by NihilisticTanuki
1 Comment
Hello, you’ve mentioned some classics already and that you want more recent works, but have you read *Foundation* and the *Robot* novels by Asimov? I will put my reading order in the reply to this. Asimov is a good bet when you want philosophical works.
Here are some random other recommendations of mine you might appreciate:
Sci fi… *Bobiverse*, *Hitchhiker’s Guide*, *Hyperion*, *Childhood’s End*, *Dune* (1-4 imo)
Horror… *The Strain* , *The Keep* (wilson) (leading into *Repairman Jack* with *The Tomb*)
Fantasy… *The Perfect Run* , *Harry Potter and the Methods of Rationality* (all versions of HPMoR are free: text, audible, or multi-actor podcast)
LitRPG (good genre but many series have about a dozen books without really ending)… *Reborn as a Demonic Tree* , *The Primal Hunter* , *He Who Fights With Monsters* , *Life Reset* (plus Life Reset is actually completed and fantastic, 6 books plus 2 sequel books. It does ask some philosophical questions too)
Graphic Novel… *Watchmen*
Nonfiction… *The Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark* , *The Moral Landscape* , *Waking Up: A Guide to Spirituality Without Religion*