The Philosopher at the End of the Universe: Philosophy Explained Through Science Fiction Films - Tapa dura

An introduction to the basic concepts of philosophy as reflected in today's popular movies provides humorous observations on and insights into such films as The Matrix, Star Wars, and Terminator. 10,000 first printing.

“Rowlands succeeds in his aims remarkably well. Not only is each chapter a model of philosophical exposition, conveying philosophical ideas with exemplary verve and clarity, the book also manages to connect the philosophy to the movies in a natural and convincing way.... The irreverent style combines the folksy with the rigorous, the shallow with the deep – and philosophy needs all the humor it can get.”
- Times Literary Supplement (U.K.)

"Rowlands has a light touch. . . . Overall, this manages to be diverting without destroying too many brain cells, which is probably what you want from a holiday read."
- The Guardian (U.K.)

"Hugely entertaining. . . . Rowlands knows his stuff and marries some of the tougher philosophical arguments to the more accessible conduit of popular entertainment . . . enjoyable and illuminating."
- Waterstone's Books Quarterly (U.K.)

"The discussions are serious, but the tone of the book is irreverent; there are laughs for both newcomers and old hands."
- www.listology.com

"Some bits made me laugh out loud. . . . He has an excellent way of explaining complex ideas and terms. After reading quite a lot of Nietzsche (in my wayward youth especially) I think that Rowlands does a better way at explaining him than the man himself!"
- www.scifimoviepage.com