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Batman and Philosophy

The Dark Knight of the Soul
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( 2,114 ratings, 216 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
Batman and Philosophy explores the complex moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the iconic superhero, Batman. Delving into philosophical inquiries, it examines questions about justice, identity, and the nature of good and evil, using Batman as a lens. This engaging read combines popular culture with deep philosophical thought, making it a captivating exploration for fans and thinkers alike.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3999
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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?

This book may appeal to you if you're intrigued by the philosophical questions behind Batman's vigilantism and moral dilemmas. It explores the deeper ethical implications of justice, identity, and the nature of heroism within the Batman universe, blending popular culture with philosophical insights.

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Batman and Philosophy

Being a crime fighting superhero is a tough job and it comes with no shortage of social and moral responsibilities.

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 doesn't Batman just kill the Joker and end everyone's misery?

Can we hold the Joker morally responsible for his actions?

Is Batman better than Superman?

If everyone followed Batman's example, would Gotham be a better place?

What is the Tao of the Bat?

Batman is one of the most complex characters ever to appear in comic books, graphic novels, and on the big screen. What philosophical trials does this superhero confront in order to keep Gotham safe? Combing through seventy years of comic books, television shows, and movies, Batman and Philosophy explores how the Dark Knight grapples with ethical conundrums, moral responsibility, his identity crisis, the moral weight he carries to avenge his murdered parents, and much more.

How does this caped crusader measure up against the teachings of Plato, Aristotle, Kant, Kierkegaard, and Lao Tzu?

Series: The Blackwell Philosophy and Pop Culture Series

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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?

The book is part of the Wiley Blackwell Philosophy and Pop Culture series and delves into Batman as a philosophically rich character. The editors argue that Batman is the most complex character in comic history, with contributors analysing his choices through philosophical frameworks like utilitarianism and deontology. While some essays explore deeper philosophical themes, touching on characters like Alfred, others tend to become repetitive.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780470270301

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons Inc

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 13 June 2008

Country: United States

Imprint: John Wiley & Sons Inc

Contributors:

  • Edited by Mark D. White
  • Edited by Robert Arp
  • Series edited by William Irwin

Audience: Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 15.0mm

Width: 152.0mm

Height: 226.0mm

Weight: 431g

Pages: 304

About the Author

MARK D. WHITE is an associate professor in the Department of Political Science, Economics, and Philosophy at the College of Staten Island/CUNY.

ROBERT ARP is a postdoctoral research associate through the National Center for Biomedical Ontology at the University at Buffalo, and edited South Park and Philosophy.

WILLIAM IRWIN is a professor of philosophy at King's College. He originated the philosophy and pop culture gentre of books as coeditor of the bestselling The Simpsons and Philosophy and has overseen recent titles, including Watchmen and Philosophy, House and Philosophy, and Alice in Wonderland and Philosophy.

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