tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8762031069446675354.post4353923253494266864..comments2013-11-12T04:15:22.728+00:00Comments on Gav's Book Reviews: Straw Dogs - uncomfy philosophyGav Collinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00664006374911602356noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8762031069446675354.post-20733380469336564382011-07-10T23:09:27.833+01:002011-07-10T23:09:27.833+01:00Having read the book I agree that it is not light ...Having read the book I agree that it is not light escapism and requires some deeper unpacking than other books. This said that is the nature of philosophy writing and it is more accessible than most philosophy I have read.<br /><br />Gray’s comments on the views of famous philosophers are controversial to say the least and some of his contentions are not closely argued, but against this his more general expositions are original and very thought provoking.<br /><br />One of Gray’s basic themes is that humanism (progress of humankind by humankind) is false. Scientific progress does not equate to political and ethical progress. He also outlines a view that life (or more accurately being) is the present and is for experiencing; it does not in itself have a purpose. <br /><br />We are bound to have an emotional reaction to his arguements however for me philosophy is about exposing truth and truth does not have emotional content. If we find Gray’s reasoning and conclusions inaccurate then it helps confirm our own views but if we find Gray’s reasoning correct then we should, where necessary, adjust our views.<br /><br />I don’t agree with large parts of the book's content but it certainly made me think and in 2002when it was written is was classed as the book of the year for 11 book reviewers including – J.G. Ballard, Will Self, Joan Bakewell and Andrew Marr. I wouldn't go as far as book of the year but I think it is a worthwhile read.<br /><br />NigelcAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8762031069446675354.post-63075957037769653292011-07-10T22:32:22.750+01:002011-07-10T22:32:22.750+01:00I would have given this a 0 GBR for the cover alon...I would have given this a 0 GBR for the cover alone. Who wants that thing lying around the house? Urghhh! Scary.<br />MarkAnonymousnoreply@blogger.com