author
Will Durant
1885–1981
Best known for bringing big ideas to everyday readers, this American historian and philosopher helped turn the history of civilization into a sweeping, readable story. His work with Ariel Durant reached millions and made ambitious subjects feel welcoming rather than remote.
1 Audiobook
Philosophy and the Social Problem
by Will Durant
About the author
Born in Massachusetts in 1885, Will Durant studied at Catholic schools, worked as a teacher and lecturer, and became committed to making philosophy and history accessible to general readers. That gift for clarity helped make The Story of Philosophy a huge success, introducing many readers to major thinkers in plain, engaging language.
He is most widely remembered for writing The Story of Civilization with his wife and longtime collaborator, Ariel Durant. Published across eleven volumes between 1935 and 1975, the series aimed to tell the long human story on a grand scale, blending politics, culture, religion, art, and ideas for a broad audience.
Their work earned major recognition, including a Pulitzer Prize for Rousseau and Revolution, one volume of the larger series. Durant died in Los Angeles in 1981, just days after Ariel, and he remains a familiar name to readers who love ambitious nonfiction that is written with warmth and range.