Customer Reviews

Sci-Phi: Philosophy from Socrates to Schwarzenegger

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The only problem I had other than not agreeing with all of his philosophical points of view is that there is a book titled "the philospher at the end of the universe" (philosophy explained through science fiction films) by Mark Rowlands. I bought both, now I have 2 copies of the same book. Other than that error, the philosphical ideas presented were explained as well as an immature and slightly ignorant philosopher like me could almost understand. The point however is that philosphy is a debatable subject, with pros and cons to subscribing to anyone idea. So as for me I will take the middle road agreeing with those aspects of each philosphy I agree with while at the same time understanding and sometimes finding validity in the contradictating philosphy. All in all I was happy about the book and feel a little smarter for it. It wasn't a boring book about philosphy provided your not expecting explosions, alien races conquiering our planet, and just want to know a little about topics such as (why be moral),(is it possible to have a personal identity),(how do we know the world around us isn't just imaginary), (why death isn't that bad, as it can give meaning to our life). Or if you want to have some ammunition for anyone that thinks science fiction is dumb, or (gasp) people that like it are dumb. The author likes Arnold Schwarzenegger movies to explain some of his ideas, the typical violent blockbusters that make artsy fartsy people turn their nose up. So read the book a few times but I recomend discussing it with people thats why he wrote it, I guess.

Mark Rowlands is the man. He was actually my professor so I am very biased in favor of him. Reading this book will be like taking a highly challenging and intellectually stimulating intro to philosophy course at a reputable school, namely the University of Miami where he now teaches. A Great read, and a unique perspective and way to teach the sometimes boring yet intriguing discipline of philosophy.