A Philosophical Dictionary, Volume 05

by Voltaire

"A Philosophical Dictionary, Volume 05" by Voltaire is an encyclopedic dictionary published in 1764. This alphabetically arranged work boldly criticizes the Roman Catholic Church, Judaism, Islam, and other institutions of its time. Written to be portable and affordable, Voltaire's dictionary aimed to educate and provoke readers with his views on Christianity, God, morality, and tolerance. The work proved controversial—wildly popular with the public and enlightened rulers, yet despised by religious authorities who burned copies in town squares across Europe.