How to Live Forever by Stephen R L Clark (9780415126267)

Description - How to Live Forever by Stephen R L Clark

Immortality is a subject which has long been explored by science fiction writers. Stephen R.L. Clark examines the ways in which science fiction writers have imagined it, and what these suggest about our present lives and natures. He shows how fantasy accounts of issues such as resurrection, disembodied survival, reincarnation and devices or drugs for preserving life can be used as a resource for philosophical inquiry. Telling fantastic stories is a philosophical technique which professional philosophers have recently neglected. It is a way of the mind to new, strange possibilities and escaping the dull round of all-to-familiar argument. Science fiction can provide the same speculative freedom as was enjoyed in late antique philosophy: the ideas of pagan and Christian Platonists, Gnostics and radical sceptics find parallels with fantasy writers of today. How to Live Forever is a compelling study which introduces students and professional philosophers to the possibilities of using science fiction in their work. It includes extensive suggestions for further reading, both fictional and philosophical.

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