Book description
"A wise and wonderfully enjoyable book. Mark Lilla treats weighty matters with a light touch, in an elegant prose style that crackles with dry wit . . . Invigorating." -John Banville, The GuardianA dazzling exploration of our wish to remain innocent and ignorant-and its consequences. Aristotle claimed that "all human beings want to know." Our own experience proves that all human beings also want not to know. Today, centuries after the Enlightenment, mesmerized crowds still follow preposterous prophets, irrational rumors trigger fanatical acts, and magical thinking crowds out common sense and expertise. Why is this? Where does this will to ignorance come from, and how does it continue to shape our lives?In Ignorance and Bliss, the acclaimed essayist and historian of ideas Mark Lilla offers an absorbing psychological diagnosis of the human will not to know. With erudition and brio, Lilla ranges from the Book of Genesis and Plato's dialogues to Sufi parables and Sigmund Freud, revealing the paradoxes of hiding truth from ourselves. He also exposes the fantasies this impulse lead us to entertain-the illusion that the ecstasies of prophets, mystics, and holy fools offer access to esoteric truths; the illusion of children's lamb-like innocence; and the nostalgic illusion of recapturing the glories of vanished and allegedly purer civilizations. The result is a highly original meditation that invites readers to consider their own deep-seated impulses and taboos.We want to know, we want not to know. We accept truth, we resist truth. Back and forth the mind shuttles, playing badminton with itself. But it doesn't feel like a game. It feels as if our lives are at stake. And they are.
Bit Sentinel
ListenBook's basic audio filters enhance my listening experience and make it uniquely mine. Automatic artwork and metadata extraction add a professional touch to my audiobook library. I’ve been using ListenBook for months, and it’s been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesn’t drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
Tomcat
The noise reduction feature is a game-changer for clearer dictaphone recordings. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Great job, developers!
ButterQuest
ListenBook's compatibility with various audio formats ensures that I can enjoy a wide range of content hassle-free. ListenBook's support for binaural audio processing is a thoughtful touch that reduces listening fatigue. I can't believe how easily this app has fit into my daily routine. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to curate customized listening sessions, whether for study, relaxation, or entertainment.
Bridge Whip
Navigating audiobooks seamlessly – this app's design is top-notch. Effortless audiobook management – this app's usability is a winner. Automated artwork and metadata extraction make my library look organized and visually appealing.
Sleek Zelda
Audiobooks on this app have made my workouts more enjoyable and productive. Audiobooks on this app have made me look forward to my long commutes. This app is my secret to staying ahead on my reading list, even during my busiest days. Book groups feature keeps series and related titles together. Neat and tidy!
Feral Cookie
ListenBook's versatility and user-friendly interface make it a must-have for audiobook lovers. Finally, an app that understands the power of CUE playlists. Perfect for organizing. Adjusting the tone of the voice adds a unique touch to my listening experience. I love the personalization! I love the variety of themes available. It makes the app feel personalized.
SneakerKid
The statistics tracking feature is a gem. I'm surprised by how much time I spend on audiobooks! Binaural audio processing really helps reduce fatigue.
Kickstart
Finally, a way to enjoy literature on the go without straining my eyes. The customer support team is responsive and always ready to assist. I love how this app's user-friendly interface allows me to navigate through chapters and controls effortlessly. With this app, I've found a way to turn every moment into an opportunity for learning and enrichment. Automated metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is so organized now.
Mr. Thanksgiving
The app's recommendations are surprisingly accurate – it's like they know my taste perfectly! I've become an audiobook addict, all thanks to this amazing app.
Slacker Cat
Organization made simple – this app's efficient management of my audiobook collection ensures that every story is just a tap away. Convenience at its finest. 📖📱 The narration elevated an already good book to greatness! The performer's subtle vocal variations conveyed nuance I might have missed while reading. Their ability to maintain consistent character voices across many hours was impressive. Technical quality was flawless throughout.
21st Street
I'm absolutely in love with this app! The interface is so intuitive and user-friendly. ListenBook Pro's sharing features allow me to spread the joy of audiobooks with my friends and family. ListenBook's absence of synchronization requirements adds to its convenience and flexibility.
Yellow Menace
ListenBook's support for various download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. 🏃♂️📚 Running through chapters, literally! This app keeps me motivated on the track. 🏃♂️📖 Finally, an app that supports all my audiobook formats! ListenBook is a game-changer.
Apple Nola
With ListenBook, I can immerse myself in captivating stories and enriching knowledge, all in one convenient app. I love how this app seamlessly integrates into my busy schedule, making multitasking a breeze. 🌟 Who needs a dull commute when you can embark on literary journeys with this app? 🚗📖
Preach Man
This app has rekindled my love for literature, and I'm spreading the word to everyone I know. As an audiobook aficionado, this app is a dream come true. Its support for various formats and effortless navigation make it my perfect reading companion. 🌟🎧 The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that makes a big difference. It enhances my listening experience.
FRMhndshk
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. This app's intuitive features and easy navigation make it a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. Effortless and enriching – that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its smooth interface and thoughtful features have set the bar high for audiobook enjoyment. 📱📖 The app's versatility in audio downloading is impressive. It's a one-stop solution for all my content. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fantastic way to introduce them to captivating stories.
Wiccan Thunder
This app has brought back the joy of reading, no matter how busy I am. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a game-changer. I can enjoy clear recordings.
Shay
The sleep timer is a brilliant addition – I drift off to sleep with amazing stories. This app has broadened my literary horizons, introducing me to new authors. ListenBook has transformed my daily activities into opportunities for personal growth. ListenBook has brought stories back into my life, making every moment a new adventure. The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a dream for road trips. It keeps me entertained.
Martini Flower
ListenBook's looping playback, shuffle feature, and configurable controls make learning a breeze. User-centric audiobook joy – this app's ease of use is a true marvel. Automatic artwork and metadata retrieval is a time-saver. My library looks fantastic.
Sloth
My commutes to work have transformed into exciting journeys thanks to this app. I can't thank this app enough for making my audiobook experience so effortless. From downloading to playback, it's a true companion for book lovers. 📚💫 This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
Mum Mary
Precise controls on ListenBook give me complete command over my audio playback. With ListenBook, I've found a versatile and enjoyable way to listen to audiobooks and expand my knowledge. Seamless audiobook integration – this app's design is a true delight. Audiobooks have become a staple in my routine, all thanks to this app's seamless integration and user-friendly design. It's a must-have for any book lover. 📖📱 Adjusting the tone of the voice is a novel feature that allows for a personalized listening experience.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience