The Philosopher's Table

“You could say my life has been a succession of big dinners enjoyed with as many of my friends and family that can be squeezed around the table—all eating, talking, and laughing. I have sometimes wondered which part I enjoy the most. Is it the tasty meal, the flowing wine, or the boisterous conversation that so often ensues as a result of the first two elements? Marietta McCarty goes at it rather brilliantly from another angle, encouraging you to put the lively conversation first. Choose a philosophical topic from her book, and it comes matched with a dinner menu and music list. Invite a few friends, neighbors, and colleagues, and voila! Welcome to the first seating of your own Philosophy Dinner Club.”

—Tom Douglas, executive chef, restaurateur, and author

“Introspective readers may find this book to be just the therapeutic read—and culinary guidance—they’ve been needing.”

—Northern Virginia Magazine

“The Philosopher’s Table is enchanting…a bulls-eye gift. Very small. Very smart. Very self-assured.”

—Beatrix Ost, author of My Father’s House: A Childhood in Wartime Bavaria


“For anyone who fears philosophy or feels unable to find an entry to philosophy, [McCarty] provides an easy way in through culture, music, food, and conversation. The writing mirrors the subject matter: clear, thoughtful, musical, sensory.  The author gives, and the reader gets…”

—Daniel J. Meador Jr., partner at Morin & Barkley LLP Attorneys at Law

“Talking with Marietta is always great fun. And reading this book is almost as much of a joy as having her in the room with you. If you like ideas and you like food, you are holding in your hands an ideal companion.”

—Tom Graham, host of WMRA’s NPR talk show Virginia Insight