Books matching: humor in philosophical writing
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- #1
"Free Will" by Mark Balaguer is a challenging yet accessible introduction to the philosophical problem of free will. Balaguer delves into the various arguments for and against the existence of free will, addressing both philosophical and scientific perspectives. The author's writing style is engaging, with a mix of humor and real-life examples, making complex concepts comprehensible without veering off-topic. Balaguer presents a balanced view of the debate surrounding free will, leaving readers with the possibility that free will exists but acknowledging the lack of definitive proof at the current time.
'Buddhism: The Religion of No-Religion' by Alan W. Watts is a philosophical exploration of Buddhism and Zen Buddhism in particular. It is described as an elegant, short, and sweet introduction to Buddhism, providing readers with a nice sense of what Buddhism is all about. is praised for its ability to simplify complex concepts and present them in a clear and understandable manner. Alan Watts is noted for his wit, humor, and insight, which are reminiscent of his famous lectures, making the book a valuable resource for those interested in Zen philosophy or seeking spiritual enlightenment.
Inorder to introduce Buddhism, it is necessary to remember the whole background of the worldview of India and study Indian cosmology, just as you would have to study the Ptolemaic cosmology and worldv...- #3
In "Leaving the Atocha Station," we follow poet Adam Gordon around Spain where he's on a fellowship, mostly thinking, reading, smoking spliffs, and lying to seem cooler and smarter. The novel delves into issues like identity, engagement with the world, the relationship between a person and art, and the passage of time. Lerner's prose is described as engaging, philosophical, and often hilarious, capturing the experience of being an American living abroad with a sense of alienation and detachment. The story is a chronicle of Adam's self-discovery through Spanish culture, his doubts about his talent and aesthetic intentions, and the validity of art.
The book portrays a young man with a scholarship to study Spanish poetry, depicted as bewildered, shifting, addicted, and constructing stories, unable to involve himself in anything. The narrative style is noted for beautifully phrased and subtle observations of the narrator's inner state, capturing states of mind in prose. The novel touches on themes of self-absorption, lack of concern, misapprehension, and a yearning for greater immersion in the world, providing an original and absorbing read about being young, artistic, and existentially uncertain.
THE FIRST PHASE OF MY RESEARCH INVOLVED WAKING UP WEEKDAY mornings in a barely furnished attic apartment, the first apartment I’d looked at after arriving in Madrid, or letting myself be woken by the ... - #4
'The Helmet of Horror' is a modern reinterpretation of the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, set in a chat room format where characters discuss philosophy, the nature of reality, and their own versions of the labyrinth. The author, Victor Pelevin, takes a unique approach to the old story, weaving contemporary themes of technology, existentialism, and metaphysics into the narrative, creating a thought-provoking and perplexing read that challenges readers to question their perceptions of reality and identity.
The novel unfolds as trapped residents of a labyrinth-like environment engage in conversations that gradually reveal the reality of their imprisonment and the nature of the world they inhabit. Through a blend of cyber-age philosophy, humor, and twists in the plot, Pelevin brings modernity and wit to the adaptation of the myth, keeping readers captivated with the unexpected turns and philosophical musings of the characters.
Well I’m in a room, anyway. Or a cell, I can’t tell which is more correct. Not very big. Green walls, white ceiling lamp. A bed by one wall and by the opposite wall a desk with the keyboard I’m typing...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Canongate's The Myths ) 'The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman' by Laurence Sterne is a unique and unconventional piece of literature that follows a non-linear narrative style filled with digressions, humor, and philosophical musings. Readers encounter a story that meanders through various anecdotes, side stories, and humorous asides, all while exploring themes of perception, knowledge, and understanding. is known for its bawdy humor, witty narrative, and complex structure that challenges traditional storytelling conventions. Sterne's writing style is described as whimsical, digressive, and ahead of its time, paving the way for postmodern literature.
Never poor Wight of a Dedicator had less hopes from his Dedication, than I have from this of mine; for it is written in a bye corner of the kingdom, and in a retir'd thatch'd house, where I live in a ...- #6
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson is a wild journey into the heart of the American dream amidst madness and drug-induced experiences. The book follows the protagonist and his lawyer as they embark on a drug-fueled trip to Las Vegas, encountering bizarre scenarios and exploring themes of counterculture, drug abuse, and randomness. The writing style is described as manic, chaotic, and filled with rapid-fire hilarious scenes that keep the reader engaged and entertained.
The New York office was not familiar with the Vincent Black Shadow: they referred me to the Los Angeles bureau—which is actually in Beverly Hills just a few long blocks from the Polo Lounge—but when I... - #7
Venus in Furs by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch is a novel that delves into the themes of dominance and submission, exploring the relationship between Severin, a masochistic man, and Wanda, the woman he desires to be his dominatrix. The book follows Severin's desire to be humiliated and abused by the woman he loves, while Wanda struggles with fulfilling his fantasies. The writing style is described as finely crafted, with moments of humor and philosophical musings intertwined with the exploration of erotic power dynamics.
For her part, Frau von Pistor cannot demand anything dishonorable of him—anything that would make him disreputable as a human being and a citizen. Furthermore she must leave him six hours daily for hi... - #8
The Big Picture by Sean Carroll is a thought-provoking exploration of complex topics such as consciousness, evolution, and the origins of life, presented in an accessible manner for laypersons. Carroll delves into diverse subjects like quantum mechanics, ethics, and the existence of God, offering insights into the nature of reality and human existence. The book combines scientific explanations with philosophical reflections, challenging readers to contemplate their beliefs and question traditional notions of free will, morality, and the universe.
In the old Road Runner cartoons, Wile E. Coyote would frequently find himself running off the edge of a cliff. But he wouldn’t, as our experience with gravity might lead us to expect, start falling to... - #9
Matilda by Roald Dahl is a heartwarming story about a brilliant young girl named Matilda who faces neglect and mistreatment from her parents. Despite her challenging home life, Matilda's love for reading and her intelligence lead her to discover her unique abilities, including telekinesis. She attends a strict school where she encounters the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, but finds solace in her kind teacher, Miss Honey. Through her courage, wit, and special powers, Matilda stands up against injustice and ultimately finds a place where she belongs.
Nearly every weekday afternoon Matilda was left alone in the house. Her brother (five years older than her) went to school. Her father went to work and her mother went out playing bingo in a town eigh... - #10
'God's Debris: A Thought Experiment' by Scott Adams delves into various themes such as string theory, probability, and the nature of God through a thought-provoking narrative. It presents a blend of physics, cosmology, and metaphysics, challenging readers to contemplate complex ideas in a simple yet engaging manner. The writing style captivates readers by providing practical insights, illustrations through examples, and intriguing characters that leave a lasting impact on the reader's perspective.
The oversized knob offered no resistance as it turned on its oiled core. I was no longer surprised to find unlocked doors in the city. Maybe at some subconscious level we don’t believe we need protect...