How to Teach Philosophy to Your Dog: A Quirky Introduction to the Big Questions in Philosophy

Monty, a Maltese terrier, and his owner, Anthony McGowan, explore the world of philosophy to determine what makes Monty a good or bad dog. They discuss topics such as ethics, free will, and the existence of God. Along the way, they learn about the history of Western philosophy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 06 August 2020
Publisher: Oneworld Publications

Monty, a scruffy and irascible Maltese terrier, was just like any other dog. He enjoyed barking at pugs and sniffing at trees. However, after yet another dramatic confrontation with the local Rottweiler, Anthony McGowan realized it was high time he and Monty had a chat about what made him a good or a bad dog.

And they don't stop at ethics. Taking his cue from Monty's canine antics, McGowan leads us on an enlightening jaunt through the world of philosophy. Will Kant convince Monty to stop stealing cheesecake? How long will they put up with Socrates poking holes in every argument? Do they have free will to pursue answers to these questions? Join the dutiful duo as they set out to uncover who, if anyone, has the right end of the ethical stick and can tell us how best to live our lives.

But there is also a shadow over their conversations. Monty is not well. And so, towards the end, the biggest questions raise their heads: is there a God? Does life have a meaning? By the time of their last walk together, Monty and the reader will find that they have not just solved a few philosophical puzzles but absorbed much of the history of Western philosophy.

Weight: 296g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786078209