The Consequences of Ideas

Theologian R. C. Sproul's Guide to the Greatest Philosophers and Thinkers in History

Plato. Aquinas. Descartes. Kant. Freud. These great thinkers are still impacting the culture today—from public-policy decisions to world events, theology, the arts, education, and even everyday conversations. In this classic book, the late R. C. Sproul expertly surveys history's most influential streams of thought, proving that ideas are not just passing fads—they have consequences for generations to come. Helping listeners better understand how many of these ideas have shaped their own thinking, this audiobook will empower Christians to be a Christlike influence in the world.

Comprehensive: Traces the thought and historical significance of philosophers such as Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Aquinas, Descartes, Locke, Hume, Kant, Marx, Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Sartre, Darwin, and Freud A Great Resource for Students and Anyone Who Enjoys Philosophy: Explores the ideas that have shaped foundational beliefs and assumptions in modern culture

1. Opening Credits
2. Introduction: Why Philosophy?
3. Chapter 1: The First Philosophers
4. Chapter 2: Plato: Realist and Idealist
5. Chapter 3: Aristotle: The Philosopher
6. Chapter 4: Augustine: Doctor of Grace
7. Chapter 5: Thomas Aquinas: Angelic Doctor
8. Chapter 6: René Descartes: Father of Modern Rationalism
9. Chapter 7: John Locke: Father of Modern Empiricism
10. Chapter 8: David Hume: Skeptic
11. Chapter 9: Immanuel Kant: Revolutionary Philosopher
12. Chapter 10: Karl Marx: Utopian
13. Chapter 11: Søren Kierkegaard: Danish Gadfly
14. Chapter 12: Friedrich Nietzsche: Atheistic Existentialist
15. Chapter 13: Jean-Paul Sartre: Litterateur and Philosopher
16. Chapter 14: Darwin and Freud: Influential Thinkers
17. Conclusion: Gilson's Choice
18. Closing Credits

R.C. Sproul

R.C. Sproul was an American Reformed theologian and ordained pastor in the Presbyterian Church in America. Known for his remarkable ability to effectively communicate deep, practical truths from the Bible, Sproul left an enduring legacy in theology. R.C.’s impact was evident through his diverse roles and accomplishments. He founded Ligonier Ministries, a renowned organization named after the Ligonier Valley near Pittsburgh, where it originated as a study center for college and seminary students. Additionally, he served as the first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, and the first president of Reformation Bible College. Beyond his ministries, Sproul's influence extended through various platforms. He could be heard daily on the Renewing Your Mind radio broadcast, captivating audiences not only in the United States but also internationally. Under his guidance, Ligonier Ministries played a pivotal role in the production of the Ligonier Statement on Biblical Inerrancy, which later evolved into the influential 1978 Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy. R.C. Sproul’s contributions earned him the reputation as "the greatest and most influential proponent of the recovery of Reformed theology in the last century."