Reunites the editors of Star Trek and Philosophy with Starfleet’s finest experts for 31 new, highly logical essaysFeatures a complete examination of the Star Trek universe, from the original series to the most recent films directed by J.J. Abrams, Star Trek (2009) and Star Trek Into Darkness (2013)Introduces important concepts in philosophy through the vast array of provocative issues raised by the series, such as the ethics of the Prime Directiv...

For a human being to exist, does it require an immaterial mind, a physical body, a functioning brain, a soul?Is there a shared nature common to all human beings? What essential qualities might define this nature? These questions are among the most widely discussed topics in the history of philosophy and remain subjects of perennial interest and controversy. The Nature of Human Persons offers a metaphysical investigation of the composition of the human esse...

Does it take faith to be a Jedi? Are droids capable of thought? Should Jar Jar Binks be held responsible for the rise of the Empire? Presenting entirely new essays, no aspect of the myth and magic of George Lucas’s creation is left philosophically unexamined in The Ultimate Star Wars and Philosophy.The editors of the original Star Wars and Philosophy strike back in this Ultimate volume that encompasses the complete Star Wars universe

“Brains before bullets” – ancient and modern wisdom for “mechanics and motorcycle enthusiasts”Essential reading for fans of the show, this book takes readers deeper into the Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club, the Teller-Morrow family, and the ethics that surround their lives and activities.Provides fascinating moral insights into Sons of Anarchy, its key characters, plot lines and ideasInvestigates compelling philosophical issues cent...

Like its predecessor, Contemporary Controversies in Catholic Bioethics, this volume gathers together an array of Catholic scholars with expertise in theology, philosophy, medicine, ethics, health administration, and pastoral care. Expanding the range of bioethical issues from the previous volume, the topics treated within this volume include transgender identity, disability, public and global health, and artificial intelligence, as well as specific controversies that arose during ...

A philosophical exploration of Joker and the meaning of the iconic antagonist's murderous escapadesA diabolically sinister but clownish villain, Joker is a symbolically rich and philosophically fascinating character. Both crazed and cunning, sadistically cruel but seductively charming, the Clown Prince of Crime embodies everything opposed to the positive ideals of order and justice defended by the Batman. With his enigmatic motivations, infectious irreverence, and ...

Should droids be free? Should clone troopers?What political and ethical ideas ground resistance and rebellion?What’s wrong with the way women are portrayed in Star Wars?Does Han Solo have a philosophical worldview?Was Galen Erso responsible for the destruction of Alderaan?Should you eat Baby Yoda?“This is the Way.” In Star Wars and Philosophy Strikes Back, the Way wends through entirely new adventures in the Star Wars

Marveling Religion: Critical Discourses, Religion, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe is an edited volume that explores the intersection of religion and cinema through the lenses of critical discourse. The focus of the shared inquiry are various films comprising the first three phases of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and corresponding Netflix series. The contributors explore various religious themes and how they intersect with culture through the canon on the MCU. The first p...

The Star Wars films continue to revolutionize science fiction, creating new standards for cinematographic excellence, and permeating popular culture around the world. The films feature many complex themes ranging from good versus evil and moral development and corruption to religious faith and pragmatism, forgiveness and redemption, and many others.The essays in this volume tackle the philosophical questions from these blockbuster films including: Was Anakin predestined to...

As a director, writer, and producer, Christopher Nolan has substantially impacted contemporary cinema through avant garde films, such as Following and Memento, and his contribution to wider pop culture with his Dark Knight trilogy. His latest film, Interstellar, delivered the same visual qualities and complex, thought-provoking plotlines his audience anticipates. The Philosophy of Christopher Nolan collects sixteen essays, written by professional philosophers and film theorists, discussing...

Philosophy and space travel are characterized by the same fundamental purpose: exploration. An essential guide for both philosophers and Trekkers, Star Trek and Philosophy combines a philosophical spirit of inquiry with the beloved television and film series to consider questions not only about the scientific prospects of interstellar travel but also the inward journey to examine the human condition. The expansive topics range from the possibilities for communication among differe...

This volume comprises various viewpoints representing a Catholic perspective on contemporary practices in medicine and biomedical research. The Roman Catholic Church has had a significant impact upon the formulation and application of moral values and principles to a wide range of controversial issues in bioethics. Catholic leaders, theologians, and bioethicists have elucidated and marshaled arguments to support the Church’s definitive positions on several bioethical issues, such as aborti...