An invaluable introduction to the leading French intellectual of the twentieth century The Wisdom of Sartre offers key excerpts from the eloquent French writer, playwright, and philosopher’s masterpiece, Being and Nothingness. From this collection, readers will discover the strongest themes in his early philosophical work: an ontological account of what it means to be human, and the role of perception, knowledge, and consciousness in the practical demands of life. Sartre’s view that man’s freedom is a unique source of both misery and pleasure and that the question of which will prevail depends on man’s awareness and commitment to his freedom is both thought provoking and timely.