Utopias, Dolphins and Computers : Problems of Philosophical Plumbing [Paperback]

Mary Midgley (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 2000 | ISBN-10: 0415133785 | ISBN-13: 978-0415133784 | Edition: 1

Why do the big philosophical questions so often strike us as far-fetched and little to with everyday life? Mary Midgley shows that it need not be that way; she shows that there is a need for philosophy in the real world. Her popularity as one of our foremost philosophers is based on a no-nonsense, down-to-earth approach to fundamental human problems, philosphical or otherwise. In Utopias, Dolphins and Computers she makes her case for philosophy as a difficult but necessary tool for solving some of the most pressing issues facing contemporary society.
How should we treat animals? Why are we so confused about the value of education? What is at stake in feminism? Why should we sustain our environment? Why do we think intelligent computers will save us? Mary Midgley argues that philosophy not only can, but should be used in thinking about these questions.
Utopias, Dolphins and Computers will make fascinating reading for philosophers, educationalists, feminists, environmentalists and indeed anyone interested in the questions of philosophy, ethics and life.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'A clear and sustained assault on the anti-intellectualism that proclaims: It may be right in theory, but not in practice. Midgley scotches this: if an idea does not work in practice, something is wrong with the theory.' - New Scientist

'Here is a philosophy book which is a pleasure to read from the point of view both of the argument, which is forceful, coherent and lucid, and of the style.' - Journal of Consciousness Studies

'In a climate of loony scientism, Mary Midgley's Utopias, Dolphins and Computers is a powerful antidote - a mix of wisdom and humour.' - The Sunday Times

About the Author

Mary Midgley is a moral philosopher. Until her retirement in 1980 she was Senior Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Newcastle.

Product Details

• Paperback: 192 pages
• Publisher: Routledge; 1 edition (April 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0415133785
• ISBN-13: 978-0415133784
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6.1 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,398,390 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This is why we do philosophy, June 6, 2003

By 

Peter Hunter (Edinburgh, UK) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Utopias, Dolphins and Computers: Problems in Philosophical Plumbing (Hardcover)

In teaching an Introduction to Philosophy course, I would certainly rather my students read this book than most or perhaps even all of the standard textbooks. This book is not an historical introduction or even a balanced look at the range of questions which interest philosophers, but it's great strength is that it conveys beautifully the importance of philosophy.

Midgley has a style of doing philosophy which is wonderfully engaged with ordinary life. Her fascination is with muddles in public thinking and she ably demonstrates the need for philosophical work to resolve these muddles. Importantly, she also shows just how important clearing up conceptual difficulties can be for society. Every page shows forth the conviction that the answers of philosophy matter, that this is not just idle musing but vital work. Turning her incisive mind on science, feminism, personhood and other topics, she shows the benefits of philosophy done well.

The book is readable, witty and thought-provoking. I would recommend it to everyone with an interest in philosophy, even the seasoned professional.