Forking Trolley: An Ethical Journey to The Good Place

The Good Place, a popular sitcom, has brought ethics and moral philosophy into the mainstream. This guide provides thought experiments and modern dilemmas to help people understand what makes for a 'good person' and how to achieve their own 'good place in life.'

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2019
Publisher: Palazzo Editions Ltd

Holy motherforking shirtballs! The wildly popular sitcom The Good Place has catapulted ethics and moral philosophy into the 21st-century mainstream. The story of Eleanor Shellstrop, who has accidentally been sent to the Good Place after her death, continually challenges us to ask what makes for a 'good person.'

Taking inspiration from the show, this is a guide to 'doing the right thing.' Using thought experiments, from the trolley problem to the balloon debate, as well as modern dilemmas like the etiquette of texting and 'self-culture (you're going to the Bad Place), here is (nearly) everything you need to know about being in your own 'good place in life.'

The Good Place is a hilarious and thought-provoking show that has captivated audiences worldwide. It explores the concept of moral philosophy and ethics in a way that is both entertaining and relatable. The show's main character, Eleanor Shellstrop, is a morally flawed woman who has accidentally been sent to the Good Place after her death.

Through her experiences in the afterlife, Eleanor learns that being a 'good person' is not about following a set of rules or being perfect, but about making choices that benefit others and bring joy to oneself. The show uses a variety of thought experiments and scenarios to explore different moral dilemmas and challenges viewers to think critically about their own values and beliefs.

One of the most famous thought experiments in The Good Place is the trolley problem. In this scenario, a group of people is stranded on a runaway trolley, and they must decide whether to pull a lever that will cause the trolley to kill one person or let it continue on its path and kill five people. Eleanor and her fellow residents of the Good Place are faced with this dilemma multiple times throughout the series, and they must use their moral judgment to determine the best course of action.

Another thought experiment that is used in The Good Place is the balloon debate. In this scenario, a group of people is stranded on an island and must decide whether to blow up a balloon that will provide them with enough air to survive or let it deflate and die. Eleanor and her fellow residents of the Good Place are faced with this dilemma multiple times throughout the series, and they must use their moral judgment to determine the best course of action.

In addition to these thought experiments, The Good Place also explores modern dilemmas like the etiquette of texting and 'self-culture.' The show challenges viewers to think critically about the choices they make in their daily lives and the impact they have on others. It encourages viewers to be kind, empathetic, and considerate of others and to strive to be the best versions of themselves.

One of the most significant themes in The Good Place is the idea of redemption. The show demonstrates that even the most morally flawed people can find redemption and make positive changes in their lives. Eleanor's journey from a morally flawed woman to a 'good person' is a testament to the power of redemption and the importance of second chances.

Another theme in The Good Place is the importance of community and connection. The show demonstrates that even in the afterlife, people need each other to thrive and be happy. Eleanor's relationships with her fellow residents of the Good Place and her journey to find her place in the community are a central part of the show's storyline.

The Good Place has also been praised for its diverse and talented cast. The show features a diverse range of characters, including a morally flawed woman, a morally upright man, a transgender woman, and a black man. The show's cast members are all talented and bring their unique perspectives and experiences to the show, which adds depth and complexity to the characters and the storyline.

In conclusion, The Good Place is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in ethics, moral philosophy, or just a good laugh. The show's thought-provoking storylines and entertaining characters have captivated audiences worldwide, and it has inspired a new generation of thinkers to explore the concept of 'doing the right thing.' Whether you are a fan of the show or just looking for a way to improve your own moral judgment, this guide to 'doing the right thing' is a great resource.

Weight: 186g
Dimension: 201 x 134 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786750792