
A journalist‑turned‑traveler decides that the great thinkers of his day deserve more than distant reverence. He compiles a list of twelve men whose ideas shape the modern world, then goes so close to their lives that he can assure listeners they really existed. The opening pages explain his purpose: to introduce these “prophets” and let readers decide whose philosophy might serve as a personal guide.
The sketches cover a wide spectrum—philosophers, scientists, playwrights, and novelists—each presented with enough context to understand their core message without demanding exhaustive study. From the dramatic wit of a celebrated playwright to the rigorous logic of a pioneering mathematician, the book highlights how each figure confronts the upheavals of early twentieth‑century life.
Written with clear, conversational prose, the work balances respectful exposition with the author’s own modest commentary. Listeners will come away with a handy map of the intellectual terrain of the era, ready to explore the ideas that still echo today.
Language
en
Duration
~7 hours (414K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Marc D'Hooghe (Images generously made available by the Internet Archive.)
Release date
2014-09-08
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1865–1929
A chemist who became one of America’s early science popularizers, he helped bring new discoveries to general readers through newspapers, magazines, and Science Service. His work sits at the crossroads of laboratory science and lively public writing.
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