How to Live Forever: Science Fiction and Philosophy

ISBN-13: 9780415126267 / Angielski / Twarda / 1995 / 232 str.

Stephen R. L. Clark

Opis

Immortality is a subject which has long been explored and imagined by science fiction writers. In his intriguing new study, Stephen R.L.Clark argues that the genre of science fiction writing allows investigation of philosophical questions about immortality without the constraints of academic philosophy. He reveals how fantasy accounts of issues such as resurrection, disembodied survival, reincarnation and devices or drugs for preserving life can be used as an important resource for philosophical inquiry and examines how a society of immortals might function through a reading of the vampire myth.
How to Live Forever is a compelling study which introduces students and professional philosophers to the possibilities of using science fiction in their work. It includes extensive suggestions for further reading, both fictional and philosophical, and examines the work of such major science fiction authors as Arthur C. Clarke, Frank Herbert, Larry Niven, William Gibson, and Colin Wilson.

Recenzje

'Every chapter in this study raises thought-provoking points about our desire for immortality and by using an impressively broad range of examples from science fiction shows the responsiveness of that genre to serious attention. Indeed How to Live Forever makes an excellent guide to the theme of immortality in the genre.' - Literature and Theology

Spis treści

Introduction 1 The end of summer 2 The age of the pussyfoot 3 Neuromancer 4 The empire of fear 5 Sailing to Byzantium 6 The philosopher’s stone 7 Bridge of ashes 8 To your scattered bodies go 9 Superluminal 10 A fish dinner in Memison 11 Childhood’s end 12 The big time 13 The triumph of time

O autorze

Clark, Stephen R L