Thinking about Stories: An Introduction to Philosophy of Fiction

Thinking About Stories is a philosophical exploration of narrative fiction, engaging with questions about its nature, purpose, and the role of the narrator. It covers a wide range of fiction types and argues that, despite its detachment from truth, fiction can teach us important things about the world we live in. The book concludes by suggesting that we may all be fictions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 278 pages
Publication date: 04 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Thinking About Stories is a captivating and intellectually stimulating exploration of philosophical inquiries into the diverse realm of narrative fiction, encompassing a wide spectrum of forms, from esteemed literary works to pulp fiction and the latest offerings on streaming platforms like Netflix. Authored by philosophers Samuel Lebens and Tatjana von Solodkoff, this thought-provoking text delves into fundamental questions about fiction, such as its essence, the benefits it provides, the necessity of a narrator, and the emotional response we experience to sad stories, even when we know they are not factual.

The book adopts a lively and conversational format, reminiscent of a lively exchange between two individuals. Each chapter is written solely by one author, while the other appears intermittently in dialogues within the text, raising questions, offering critiques, and inviting responses from their co-author. This unique format immerses readers in the philosophical discourse surrounding the foundations of various fictional narratives, making them feel like active participants in the conversation.

One of the key features of Thinking About Stories is its broad and diverse range of narrative fiction sources. The book encompasses a wide array of genres, including Harry Potter, Breakfast of Champions, and Parks and Recreation. By examining the philosophical implications of these diverse works, the authors shed light on how fiction, despite its detachment from reality, possesses the remarkable ability to teach us valuable insights about the world we inhabit.

In the final chapter, the book poses a thought-provoking question: Could we all be fictions? This thought-provoking inquiry challenges our perception of ourselves and the world around us, encouraging us to reevaluate our beliefs and assumptions. The book concludes with comprehensive bibliographies and suggested reading lists in each chapter, providing valuable resources for further exploration of the philosophical themes discussed.

In summary, Thinking About Stories is a must-read for anyone interested in delving into the philosophical dimensions of narrative fiction. Through its engaging and thought-provoking approach, the book offers a fresh perspective on the power of fiction to teach us, inspire us, and provoke us to think critically about the world we live in. Whether you are a fan of literature, cinema, or television, this book will enrich your understanding and appreciation of the narratives that shape our lives.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367647513