Synopses & Reviews
One of the foremost philosophers of our time, Robert Nozick continues the Socratic tradition of investigation. This volume, which illustrates the originality, force, and scope of his work, also displays Nozick's trademark blending of extraordinary analytical rigor with intellectual playfulness. As such,
Socratic Puzzles testifies to the great pleasure that both doing and reading philosophy can be.
Comprising essays and philosophical fictions, classics and new work, the book ranges from Socrates to W. V. Quine, from the implications of an Israeli kibbutz to the flawed arguments of Ayn Rand. Nozick considers the figure of Socrates himself as well as the Socratic method (why is it a "method" of getting at the truth?). Many of these essays bring classic methods to bear on new questions about choice. How should you choose in a disconcerting situation ("Newcomb's Problem") when your decisions are completely predictable? Why do threats and not offers typically coerce our choices? How do we make moral judgments when we realize that our moral principles have exceptions? Other essays present new approaches to familiar intellectual puzzles, from the stress on simplicity in scientific hypotheses to the tendency of intellectuals to oppose capitalism.
As up to date as the latest reflections on animal rights; as perennial as the essentials of aesthetic merit (doggerel by Isaac Newton goes to prove that changing our view of the world won't suffice); as whimsical as a look at how some philosophical problems might appear from God's point of view: these essays attest to the timeliness and timelessness of Nozick's thinking. With a personal introduction, in which Nozick discusses the origins, tools, and themes of his work, Socratic Puzzles demonstrates how philosophy can constitute a way of life.
Review
Socratic Puzzles is the work of a brilliant mind whose energy for abstract ratiocination in the service of structure hasn't mellowed as much as some thought it would. As ever, Nozick impresses and daunts readers able to follow him. Carlin Romano
Review
"Socratic Puzzles is the work of a brilliant mind whose energy for abstract ratiocination in the service of structure hasn't mellowed as much as some thought it would. As ever, Nozick impresses and daunts readers able to follow him."
--Carlin Romano, Philadelphia Inquirer"Nozick is a distinctive voice in contemporary philosophy: inventive, funny, and often contrarian in his beliefs and choice of topics. At its best his work is exhilarating."
--Thomas Hurka, Toronto Globe &MailReview
Nozick is a distinctive voice in contemporary philosophy: inventive, funny, and often contrarian in his beliefs and choice of topics. At its best his work is exhilarating. Philadelphia Inquirer
Synopsis
One of the foremost philosophers of our time, Robert Nozick continues the Socratic tradition of investigation. This volume, which illustrates the originality, force, and scope of his work, is also an example of Nozick's trademark blending of extraordinary analytical rigor with intellectual playfulness. As such, Socratic Puzzles testifies to the great pleasure that both doing and reading philosophy can be.
About the Author
Robert Nozick was Pellegrino University Professor at Harvard University. His book Anarchy, State, and Utopia received a National Book Award.
DECEASED
Table of Contents
Introduction
Choice and Utility
Coercion
Newcomb's Problem and Two Principles of Choice
Reflection's on Newcomb's
Interpersonal Utility Theory
On Austrian Methodology
Philosophy and Methodology
Socratic Puzzles
Experience, Theory, and Language
Simplicity as Fall-Out
Invisible-Hand Explanations
Ethics and Politics
Moral Complications and Moral Structures
On the Randian Argument
Weighted Voting and "One-Man, One-Vote"
Discussions and Reviews
Goodman, Nelson, on Merit, Aesthetics
Who Would Choose Socialism?
Why Do Intellectuals Oppose Capitalism?
The Characteristic Features of Extremism
War, Terrorism, Reprisals--Drawing Some Moral Lines
Do Animals Have Rights?
Philosophical Fictions
Fiction
R.S.V.P.--A Story
Testament
Teleology
Notes and References
Credits
Name Index
Subject Index