The Ashtray: (Or the Man Who Denied Reality)

Errol Morris' book "The Ashtray" explores his perspective on the world and his belief in the necessity of truth, challenging the concept of "paradigm shifts" introduced by philosopher Thomas Kuhn. Morris argues that truth is about the relationship between language and the world and that it is our duty to establish and support it in a time when truth feels embattled.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 17 February 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

Filmmaker Errol Morris presents his unique perspective on the world and his unwavering belief in the importance of truth. In 1972, philosopher of science Thomas Kuhn threw an ashtray at Morris during a confrontation. This book is the outcome of that incident.

Morris, at the time, was a graduate student. Today, he is widely recognized as one of the most celebrated and relentlessly inquisitive filmmakers of our time, renowned for creating iconic documentaries such as "The Thin Blue Line" and "The Fog of War." Kuhn, on the other hand, was a prominent figure in his field, known for his groundbreaking work "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions," which has sold over a million copies and introduced the concept of "paradigm shifts" to the broader culture. However, Morris disagreed with Kuhn's notion.

The Ashtray delves into the reasons behind Morris's skepticism and presents a compelling argument for his way of viewing the world. According to Morris, truth revolves around the relationship between language and the world: a correspondence idea of truth. He holds little regard for philosophical systems that prioritize internal coherence at the expense of the real world. Instead, Morris aims to establish as clearly as possible what we know and can say about the world, reality, history, our actions, and interactions. This fundamental desire drives his filmmaking, whether he is questioning Robert McNamara about Vietnam or exploring the peculiar owner of a pet cemetery.

Morris understands that truth can be elusive, but he believes that we must do everything in our power to establish and support it. In a time when truth seems increasingly under threat, besieged by political lies and the virtual realm, Morris's message is more relevant than ever. He urges us to resist the temptation to navigate truth through philosophical evasions and instead embrace the challenge of seeking and embracing it. By doing so, we can contribute to a more informed and truthful society.

Weight: 766g
Dimension: 203 x 254 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226922690