Simon Blackburn Books
Simon Blackburn is a retired professor of philosophy at the University of Cambridge, and a distinguished research fellow of philosophy at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Along with his significant contributions to academic philosophy – particularly in metaethics and quasi-realism – Blackburn is known for his books aimed at a general audience, such as the best-selling Think.
What's Ethics about?
Ethics: A Very Short Introduction (2001) does exactly what it says on the tin: it’s a clear and accessible introduction to the branch of philosophy that’s concerned with how we ought to treat each other. By exploring key challenges and theories within ethics, Simon Blackburn cuts through philosophical jargon so we can learn to think clearly about how we ought to behave.
Who should read Ethics?
- Beginners looking to get started with philosophy
- Cynics secretly wondering if an ethical life is even possible
- Altruists who want to live more ethical lives
What's Think about?
Think (1999) is a practical guide to philosophy that tackles profound questions of knowledge, consciousness, fate, and morality. By exploring the approaches of great thinkers like Descartes, Hume, and Kant, this work serves as an accessible introduction to the enduring debates that shape our understanding of truth, justice, and the human condition.
Who should read Think?
- Philosophy enthusiasts seeking an engaging introduction to the discipline’s most important issues
- Anyone curious about the big questions of life, such as knowledge, consciousness, and ethics
- Lifelong learners who appreciate lively and approachable discussions about the human condition