JUST THINK: PHILOSOPHY PUZZLES FOR CHILDREN AGED 9 – 90
Is the world we see around us really there? Is it ever right to do something wrong? Is beauty just a matter of opinion? Should everyone in society be paid the same? Are miracles possible? If you find questions like these fascinating, you are a philosopher. And if you are a philosopher, this book is for you.
To request a sample of the first three puzzles, click here.
The book is aimed at intelligent children aged 9 to14 and their parents or teachers. At the front are thirty philosophy puzzles, like the ones above, written for the young people themselves. These are followed by commentaries giving parents and teachers more background on each question. The book can be used by a young person on their own, or as a resource for adults leading discussions.
The puzzles are divided into sections on six major areas of philosophy: epistemology, ethics, aesthetics, philosophy of science, social & political philosophy, and philosophy of religion. Each starts with a discussion between Philip and Phoebe, an argumentative brother and sister, followed by what one or more famous philosophers have said on the topic. Then there are three tricky questions, with which the reader can test family, friends, and teachers, and finally one or more websites for research. The adult commentaries on each puzzle are located in a separate section at the back of the book.
Order the book from the UK here, from the USA here, or from Australia here. The book is also available for purchase by schools and retailers worldwide through Gardners or the Ingram Content Group with the usual trade discount.
THINK AGAIN: MORE PHILOSOPHY PUZZLES FOR CHILDREN AGED 9 – 90
A sequel to Just Think, this book contains thirty more puzzles in the same style. The puzzles are divided into sections on ethics, language & epistemology, social & political philosophy, philosophy of science, aesthetics, and logic. One again, there is a commentary for parents and teachers at the back of the book.
JUST THINK 