François-Marie Voltaire Knihy

A survey of the historical development of the idea of race, this anthology offers pre-twentieth century theories about the concept of race, classic twentieth century sources reiterating and contesting ideas of race as scientific, and several philosophically relevant essays that discuss the issues presented. A general Introduction gives an overview of the readings. Headnotes introduce each selection. Includes suggested further readings.

In the title tale of this original collection, Voltaire addresses the social and political problems of his own day in an ancient Babylonian setting. "Zadig" challenges 18th-century religious orthodoxy by portraying life's vicissitudes as the product of destiny rather than individual choices. Additional selections of the Enlightenment philosopher's short fiction include "Micromegas," "The World As It Is," "Jeannot and Colin," and other stories.