The Lord of the Rings and Philosophy

Author: (USA) Basham / (USA) Bronson, edited by Jin Minmin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-08-01
Features: Can the power of the superhuman be used for good, or is it often tempting, leading to disastrous consequences? Will nature rise up against technology? Immortality is originally an annoying burden! This brilliant book offers us a feast of insights on good, evil, freedom, choice, desire, love, death, and happiness. Every page bursts with wisdom. — Tom Morris, philosopher and author of best-selling books "If Aristotle Were CEO" and "The Art of Success" Even seasoned scholars of Tolkien would find this extraordinary collection of essays thought-provoking. Philosophical sparks fly, and readers will surely gain new insights when rereading Tolkien's fantasy masterpiece. — David Solomon, philosopher and director of the Center for Ethics and Culture at Notre Dame University
Can the power of the superhuman be used for good, or is it often tempting, leading to disastrous consequences? Will nature rise up against technology? Is immortality originally an annoying burden? There are many troubling questions raised by Tolkien's epic masterpiece "The Lord of the Rings." Tolkien hoped that his stories could help people become kinder. He consciously selected some troubling and controversial themes from mythology, religion, and philosophical speculation. Professors Basham and Bronson have gathered a group of scholars who are both philosophically inclined and well-versed in Middle-earth lore to explore these fascinating questions raised by "The Lord of the Rings."
For this grand of our time, the goal is to seek a deeper understanding. It is hoped that this book will not only help you grasp some of the profound and meaningful themes in "The Lord of the Rings" but also spark your interest in some eternal and timeless philosophical questions.