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How often have you really stopped to listen to what the children around you have to say? Professor Scott Hershovitz says, "Every child is a philosopher ." And listening to them offers us a new perspective on philosophy in Adventures in Philosophy with My Children .
Some of the world's greatest philosophers gather in surprising places: preschools and playgrounds. They debate metaphysics and morality, even though they've never heard the words and probably don't even know how to tie their shoes. They're children. And, as Scott Hershovitz reveals in his charming debut book, they're surprisingly good philosophers.
Hershovitz is a professor of law and philosophy, as well as father to Hank and Rex, from whom he learned that, from a very young age, children raise questions that go beyond simple childish questions. They recreate old discussions. And develop entirely new ones. Children are not afraid to appear foolish, so they ask the hows and whys of everything, challenging the answers they receive.
In Adventures in Philosophy with My Children , Hershovitz takes the reader on a lighthearted and relaxed journey through classical and contemporary philosophy, following the philosophical perspective of his two young children. The discussions range from questions like " Does Hank have the right to drink soda?" to "Does the number six really exist? " But they also touch on more complex topics such as punishment, authority, sex, gender, race, the nature of truth and knowledge, and the existence of God.
A book inspired by children but written for adults, Adventures in Philosophy with My Children uses simple and entertaining language to discuss key points about the deepest mysteries of the world and our place in it. The journey features the help of professional philosophers, both famous and lesser-known. Learn from Scott Hershovitz, Rex, and Hank the importance of thinking collaboratively with children, developing a more complete critical sense, and prepare to join them on their philosophical adventures.
“Hershovitz blends humor and wisdom in this thoroughly enjoyable philosophical journey that uses conversations with the author’s two sons to demonstrate that ‘anyone can be a philosopher and every child is.’… Filled with amusing anecdotes, Hershovitz demonstrates how to engage children by taking them seriously, teaching them to ask questions, and encouraging them to explore the world—things from which adults can learn, too. This candid and thought-provoking account demystifies the idea that philosophy belongs in the ivory tower of academia.” – Publishers Weekly
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