Post-Prandial Philosophy

"Post-Prandial Philosophy" by Grant Allen is a compilation of thought-provoking essays from the late 1800s that were originally published in "The Westminster Gazette", and provides thoughtful reflections on a wide array of subjects, ranging from the development of languages to customary behaviors in society, all while trying to inspire reflection rather than providing detailed resolutions. The book provides insight into the issues and viewpoints that were part of the Victorian era, making it a valuable book for anyone who wants to explore the philosophical ideas of the time. The book starts with the author exploring the competitive nature exhibited between languages, emphasizing the rise of English as a main language across the world. He questions common views on language dominance, suggesting instead that its utility and economic importance are the main influencers of a language’s success and overall spread. This early essay sets the stage, as Allen's friendly approach welcomes readers to consider language as a living and evolving thing, and it's forced through selection in a similar way to species in the natural world, inviting everyone to seriously reflect on the ideas that Allen explores throughout this set of essays.