Monty Python and Philosophy: Nudge Nudge, Think Think!

I must preface my comments with the following disclaimer: I've always been a huge Monty Python fan; and I've always had a strong interest in philosophy (in fact, I minored in Philosophy in college). I've read and enjoyed other volumes in the Philosophy and Modern Culture series ("The Simpsons and Philosophy", "Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Philosophy", and "The Lord of the Rings and Philosophy"). And I've always felt that Monty Python's humor was deeply philosophical. So, perhaps I am predisposed to loving this book. Please take my biases into account when considering my recommendation. If you aren't a Monty Python fan, don't even bother with this book -- you won't get it. Likewise, if you don't have a serious interest in philosophy, this book is probably not for you. This is a book of serious philosophical essays, written by serious philosophers, only one of whom is actually named Bruce. Of course, just because the philosophy in this volume is "serious" doesn't mean that it is not also funny. The book is filled with Pythonesque humor. (Philosophers, as a rule, are a silly bunch.) But this is real philosophy, inspired by Monty Python; it is NOT a parody of philosophy written by the Pythons. The essays in this volume deal with philosophical issues such as: Why "The Life of Brian" is heretical, but not actually blasphemous. Why the explosion of Mr. Creosote from "The Meaning of Life" is funny, not just disgusting. What the Piston Engine sketch tells us about language and meaning. Why an Argument Clinic might actually be useful. Whether God is British (and what this implies for the eternal fate of Python fans). The feminist subtext of "Monty Python and the Holy Grail". What "The Meaning of Life" tells us about transcendentalism. And much more.

Gary L. Hardcastle and George A. Reisch's Monty Python And Philosophy is for any Python fan, whether or not they like philosophy. Here professional philosophers and amateur Python fans celebrate and discuss the unlikely intersections of humor and philosophy, with comedy blending to metaphysics and ethics blending into TV and film insights. Especially recommended for college-level readers reluctant to enter the world of philosophy.

"Monty Python and Philosophy" is yet another addition to the excellent Open Court Series that introduces the non-philosopher to philosophy while giving those trained in the field something to smile about. Hardcastle and Reisch have done an excellent job collecting essays from philosophers around the country who see Monty Python as a breakthrough in conventional thinking. The collection is well rounded and informative and will be enjoyed by those who are familiar with Monty Python as well as those who always wondered what the fuzz was all about.

Simply put, the best book ever conceived. The author, Gary L. Hardcastle, has done a tremendous job at capturing some essential philosophical issues in the hilarious scenes of Monty Python. From the very first page to the end of the book, humor is elegantly placed with thought provoking arguments. What's best about this book, at least in my eyes, is its diversity to an audience; it can be read and thoroughly enjoyed by an experienced and professional philosopher, or by a person who has never had a course in Philosophy and is just a fan of Monty Python. This masterpiece is accessible to all whom pick it up... and can read. Out of all the ____ and Philosophy editions out, this is the best one yet!.. especially if you think Monty Python is at all funny. I recommend this book over any other book out there, you will not be sorry.