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What Is Philosophy for?

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( 149 ratings, 18 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
What Is Philosophy for? by Mary Midgley explores the role of philosophy in providing a deeper understanding of the world and our place within it. The book argues that philosophy helps in clarifying our thoughts, confronting complex problems, and addressing fundamental human questions, by drawing on wisdom across disciplines. Through accessible language, Midgley makes a case for philosophy's relevance in helping us navigate modern life.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3899
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this insightful exploration if you're intrigued by the role of philosophy in everyday life, as it delves into how philosophical thinking can help us make sense of the world around us. This book may appeal to you if you're curious about how philosophical concepts intersect with practical and ethical issues, offering fresh perspectives on the value and relevance of philosophy today.

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What Is Philosophy for?

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Why should anybody take an interest in philosophy? Is it just another detailed study like metallurgy? Or is it similar to history, literature and even religion: a study meant to do some personal good and influence our lives?

"Engaging and accessible, this vigorous swansong exemplifies many of Midgley's virtues, and revisits many of her favourite themes." - The Tablet

In her last published work, Mary Midgley addresses provocative questions, interrogating the various forms of our current intellectual anxieties and confusions and how we might deal with them. In doing so, she provides a robust, yet not uncritical, defence of philosophy and the life of the mind.

This defence is expertly placed in the context of contemporary debates about science, religion, and philosophy. It asks whether, in light of rampant scientific and technological developments, we still need philosophy to help us think about the big questions of meaning, knowledge, and value.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Mary Midgley's What Is Philosophy for? is praised for its engaging and accessible style, showcasing her strengths and revisiting recurring themes. It highlights the danger of viewing the world through a single lens, advocating for diverse perspectives. The book argues that philosophy, unlike science, aims to unify aspects of life to create a coherent worldview, which is essential for humanity. Moreover, it underscores the necessity of philosophical integration to balance the predominant faith in scientific and technological advancements.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781350051072

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 20 September 2018

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Bloomsbury Academic

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 22.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 255g

Pages: 232

About the Author

Mary Midgley is Senior Lecturer Emeritus in Philosophy, Newcastle University, UK. One of the leading moral philosophers of the 20th century, Midgley has written extensively on human nature, science, ethics, animals, and the environment. Her books include Beast and Man, Heart and Mind, Animals and Why They Matter, Are You an Illusion? and Wickedness.

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