This profound book by Jean-François Dortier, titled 'From Socrates to Foucault: Philosophers on Trial,' meticulously delves into the lives and thoughts of prominent philosophers. It examines how their seminal ideas and theories were not only shaped by but also profoundly influenced the societal and historical contexts of their respective eras. Dortier expertly explores the practical implications and the 'trials by experience' faced by these intellectual giants, moving beyond mere abstract concepts to vividly reveal the deeply human experience underpinning all philosophical inquiry. Ranging from the foundational wisdom of ancient Socrates to the complex postmodern critiques of Foucault, the book offers a truly unique and compelling perspective on the enduring relevance of philosophy in unraveling the complexities of the human condition and the persistent challenges of existence. It serves as a fascinating intellectual journey through history, meticulously highlighting the constant, dynamic interplay between theoretical frameworks and lived human experience.