Voltaire was one of the first philosophers to be commercially successful internationally. Famous for his strong views on the importance of civil liberties, he was equally renowned for his wit. A prolific letter writer, he was also the author of over 2000 books, including the novel ‘Candide’, which criticises and ridicules many of the events and philosophies of the time. It is widely recognised as one of the most glorious satires of the 18th century. John Gray’s short account is the ideal introduction to one of the great thinkers of all time.