The Greatest Australian, Swiss "Nonfiction" Books Since 2010

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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  1. 1. Fathoms: The World In The Whale by Rebecca Giggs

    "Fathoms: The World In The Whale" is a profound exploration of the relationship between humans and whales, delving into the history, mythology, and biology of these majestic creatures. The book weaves together environmental and cultural narratives, examining the impact of human activity on whales and their habitats, while also reflecting on what whales signify in our collective imagination. Through lyrical prose, the author invites readers to consider the ethical dimensions of wildlife conservation, the consequences of climate change, and the intricate connections between the natural world and human society, all through the lens of the awe-inspiring presence of whales in our oceans.

    The 8437th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Cult Of Emptiness The Western Discovery Of Buddhist Thought And The Invention Of Oriental Philosophy by Urs App

    This book delves into the fascinating journey of how Buddhist thought was introduced and interpreted in the West, tracing the origins back to the encounters between European intellectuals and Asian cultures. It explores the notion of "Oriental Philosophy" as a construct of Western imagination, shaped by the translations and interpretations of texts that were often misunderstood or taken out of context. The author critically examines the romanticization and misconceptions that led to the creation of a mystical and exotic Eastern philosophy, highlighting the impact of these interpretations on both Western perceptions of Buddhism and the development of modern philosophy. Through a meticulous historical analysis, the book reveals the complex dynamics of cultural exchange, intellectual curiosity, and the quest for spiritual understanding, shedding light on the enduring fascination with the concept of emptiness and the cultural constructs that have emerged around it.

    The 8519th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. This House of Grief by Helen Garner

    This book is a true crime story about a man who is accused of murdering his three sons by driving them into a dam in Australia. The narrative follows the court case, providing a detailed account of the proceedings and evidence presented. It also delves into the emotional turmoil of the family and community, exploring themes of grief, loss, and the search for truth. The author's journalistic style of writing offers a balanced and thoughtful perspective on this tragic event.

    The 9486th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Other Minds by Peter Godfrey-Smith

    This book delves into the fascinating world of cephalopods, particularly octopuses, squids, and cuttlefish, to explore the nature and origins of consciousness. The author, a distinguished philosopher of science and a skilled scuba diver, draws parallels between the development of the human mind and the intelligence of cephalopods, which evolved independently. Through a blend of scientific research, philosophical inquiry, and personal encounters with these enigmatic creatures, the book examines the profound implications of cephalopod consciousness for our understanding of the mind and the evolution of intelligence across different species.

    The 10111th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Testosterone Rex: Unmaking The Myths Of Our Gendered Minds by Cordelia Fine

    "Testosterone Rex: Unmaking The Myths Of Our Gendered Minds" challenges the long-standing belief that testosterone is the primary driver of gender differences. The book explores the scientific evidence that debunks this myth and argues that societal expectations and cultural influences play a significant role in shaping gender roles and behaviors. Through a combination of research, wit, and humor, the author dismantles the notion of Testosterone Rex, offering a fresh perspective on the complex interplay between biology and society in understanding gender.

    The 11079th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download