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Why the World Does Not Exist

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In Why the World Does Not Exist, philosopher Markus Gabriel challenges the traditional notion of existence and the concept of a world that contains everything. He argues that the 'world' as an all-encompassing entity cannot exist because it is not found within itself. Using witty thought experiments and engaging language, Gabriel explores how everything else exists apart from this world, inviting readers to reconsider their understanding of reality and existence.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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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?

Ideal for readers interested in philosophy and psychology, especially those curious about existential questions and the nature of reality. Suitable for both general readers and students seeking an accessible yet profound exploration of fundamental philosophical ideas.

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This new book of popular philosophy is a major bestseller in Germany, where it sold over 40,000 copies in the first few weeks after publication Gabriel argues that the world does not exist because what is, in fact, includes not simply so-called facts, but also views of those facts, dreams, projects, works of art and perspectives.

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

Where do we come from? Are we merely a cluster of elementary particles in a gigantic world receptacle? And what does it all mean?

In this highly original new book, the philosopher Markus Gabriel challenges our notion of what exists and what it means to exist. He questions the idea that there is a world that encompasses everything like a containerβ€”life, the universe, and everything else. This all-inclusive being does not exist and cannot exist. For the world itself is not found in the world. Even when we think about the world, the world about which we think is obviously not identical with the world in which we think. As we are thinking about the world, this is only a very small event in the world. Besides this, there are still innumerable other objects and events: rain showers, toothaches, and the World Cup. Drawing on the recent history of philosophy, Gabriel asserts that the world cannot exist at all, because it is not found in the world. Yet, with the exception of the world, everything else exists; even unicorns on the far side of the moon wearing police uniforms.

Revelling in witty thought experiments, word play, and the courage of provocation, Markus Gabriel demonstrates the necessity of a questioning mind and the role that humour can play in coming to terms with the abyss of human existence.

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?

Praised as a "majestic thought experiment" by Slavoj Ε½iΕΎek, the book has been recognised for its clarity and accessibility, with Simon Critchley noting Gabriel's rare gift for philosophising from first principles. The Sydney Morning Herald likened Gabriel's style to a blend of notable philosophers' strengths, and The Guardian commended the translation's lucidity. Described as a "gripping thriller" by Die Literarische Welt, the book combines profound philosophical inquiry with engaging prose.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780745687575

Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 April 2017

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Polity Press

Contributors:

  • Translated by Gregory Moss

Audience: Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 18.0mm

Width: 135.0mm

Height: 211.0mm

Weight: 272g

Pages: 256

About the Author

Markus Gabriel was born in 1980 and studied in Heidelberg, Lisbon and New York. Since 2009 he has held the chair for Epistemology at the University of Bonn and with that is GermanyοΏ½s youngest philosophy professor. He is also the director of the International Center for Philosophy in Bonn.

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