Wednesday, December 28, 2016

Simon Blackburn - Truth (Penguin, 2006) ***


In this post-truth era, it is good to understand what 'Truth' is, and how it has been looked upon by all great philosophers. Simon Blackburn is a great guide. First, because even if he gives some insights into the history of philosophy, this is not a historical overview. Blackburn tries to identify within history what might be relevant for us today. He guides us through the concepts of absolute versus relative truths, with Protagoras and Nietsche proponents of the latter, and Plato and religions of the former. He ends with his views on realism and pragmatic truth, based on empirical evidence and success in real life.

Like all books by Blackburn, this one is easy to read and follow. He style is light and non-academic.

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