Star Trek and Philosophy

"Humorously subtitled 'The Wrath of Kant,' this book examines the relationship between Star Trek and various schools of philosophy, and enlists the help of 21 professional philosophers to show how the theories of philosophers such as Wittgenstein and Nietzsche made their way into the scripts of a network television show."

—Annotation ©2008 Book News Inc. Portland, OR



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 different cultural backgrounds to questions about the stoic temperament exhibited by Vulcans to Ferengi business practices. Specifically chosen to break new ground in exploring the philosophical dimensions of Star Trek, these articles boldly go where no philosopher has gone before.