Scott Hershovitz Livres

Witty and learned, Hershovitz intertwines parenting and philosophy through spirited debates with his kids about infinity, morality, and the existence of God. This engaging guide reveals that some of the best philosophers can be found in preschools and playgrounds, where children tackle profound questions about metaphysics and ethics, often without knowing the terminology. In this delightful exploration, kids emerge as astoundingly good philosophers, prompting adults to reflect on their own thinking. The narrative follows Scott and his two young sons, Rex and Hank, as they navigate classic and contemporary philosophical dilemmas. They ponder questions like whether Hank has the right to drink Fanta, when swearing is acceptable, and the existence of the number six. Their discussions delve into significant topics such as punishment, authority, sex, gender, race, truth, knowledge, and the existence of God. With insights from both renowned and lesser-known philosophers, the journey encourages adults to engage with children's philosophical inquiries, rekindling their own childlike wonder. Ultimately, it advocates for joining kids in their explorations to become better, more discerning thinkers.

A Michigan professor of law and philosophy presents a thought-provoking exploration of life's biggest questions, inspired by his two young sons, Rex and Hank. Observing their curiosity from an early age, he discovered that children naturally raise philosophical questions and seek answers, often leading to profound insights. Kids engage with the world in ways that sometimes echo ancient arguments or introduce novel perspectives, showcasing their innate philosophical abilities. With humor and storytelling, the author follows the philosophical inquiries initiated by his sons, tackling pressing issues such as rights, revenge, authority, sex, gender, race, knowledge, and truth—topics often overlooked by adults. Through the lens of his sons' curiosity, he offers an engaging journey through both contemporary and classic philosophy. He emphasizes the importance of nurturing children's philosophical exploration while encouraging adults to participate in these discussions, ultimately aiming to enhance our own critical thinking and rekindle the wonder that children have for the world around them.

What is law, and why does it matter? Scott Hershovitz says that law is a moral practice—a tool for adjusting our moral relations. This claim is simple on its face, but it has stark implications for the rule of law. At once erudite and entertaining, Hershovitz’s argument engages with the most important legal and political controversies of our time.

Každý dospělý může být filozofem a každé dítě jím je. Jedni z nejlepších filozofů na světě se scházejí tam, kde bychom je nečekali: v mateřských školách a na dětských hřištích. Diskutují o otázkách spjatých s metafyzikou a morálkou, přestože tato slova ještě nikdy neslyšeli a možná si ani neumějí zavázat tkaničky. Jsou to děti. A jak nám Scott Hershovitz dokazuje ve svém laskavém debutu, jsou to také překvapivě dobří filozofové. Hershovitz má dva malé syny, Rexe a Hanka. Od chvíle, kdy začali mluvit, si všímal, že si pokládají filozofické otázky a snaží se také na všechny najít odpověď. Spolu se svými dětmi nás autor zve na zábavnou procházku klasickou i současnou filozofií, na níž se budeme zabývat otázkami typu: Má Hank právo pít limonádu? Kdy je v pořádku nadávat? Existuje číslo šest? Hershovitz a jeho kluci se ale věnují i závažnějším tématům. Zkoumají tresty, autoritu, sex, pohlaví, rasu, povahu pravdy a poznání a existenci Boha. Pomáhají jim skuteční filozofové, jak slavní, tak téměř neznámí. A ukazují, že když budeme naslouchat dětem a přemýšlet s nimi, můžeme se všichni hodně naučit. Hershovitz nás vyzývá, abychom děti podporovali v jejich filozofických dobrodružstvích. Ale nejen to – vybízí nás, abychom se k nim přidali, abychom se stali lepšími a zdravě kritickými mysliteli a znovu prožili kousek z dětského úžasu nad světem.