The Weirdness of the World

Philosopher Eric Schwitzgebel argues that the answers to fundamental questions about human consciousness and the cosmos are bizarre and beyond our powers of comprehension. He proposes a philosophy that opens to reveal possibilities we had not previously appreciated or closes to narrow down to the one correct theory. He makes a persuasive case for considering the most bizarre philosophical possibilities, such as whether the United States is a conscious organism or if virtually every action we perform causes every possible type of future event.

Format: Hardback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 16 January 2024
Publisher: Princeton University Press

The Weirdness of the World, a book by philosopher Eric Schwitzgebel, delves into the enigmatic nature of human consciousness and the fundamental structure of the cosmos. Schwitzgebel challenges our understanding by proposing that the answers to these fundamental questions lie beyond our capabilities of comprehension. While we may be certain that the truth is weird, he suggests that philosophy can serve two purposes: to open up new possibilities or to close in on the one correct theory of a phenomenon.

Schwitzgebel advocates for a philosophy that embraces the weirdness of the world. According to his “Universal Bizarreness” thesis, every possible theory of the relationship between mind and cosmos defies common sense. Moreover, his “Universal Dubiety” thesis asserts that no general theory of the relationship between mind and cosmos compels rational belief.

In his book, Schwitzgebel explores a range of bizarre philosophical possibilities, including the idea that the United States might be a conscious organism, akin to a conscious group mind with the intelligence of a rabbit. He also considers the possibility that virtually every action we perform could cause virtually every possible type of future event, echoing down through the infinite future of an infinite universe. Additionally, he delves into the subjective experiences of garden snails, questioning what it might be like to inhabit such a small and seemingly insignificant creature.

Through his compelling arguments, Schwitzgebel makes a strong case for the thrill of considering the most bizarre philosophical possibilities. He encourages readers to step outside of their comfort zones and explore the boundaries of human knowledge and understanding. The Weirdness of the World offers a thought-provoking and entertaining exploration of the mysteries of the cosmos, challenging our preconceived notions and prompting us to think deeply about the nature of reality and our place within it.

Weight: 764g
Dimension: 167 x 243 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691215679