Family Guy and Philosophy: A cure for the Petarded
- Details
- Published on Sunday, 08 January 2012 21:09
- Written by Super User
Most people who have any intellect themselves would agree that Peter Griffin – titular father figure of the oft-ridiculed but never bested Fox SMASH “Family Guy” - is perhaps the most anti-intellectual human (or facsimile thereof) on the planet (even on Fox). And yet, there is a greater wisdom to Peter that perhaps only a few devoted fans (Ed note: I watch religiously!) can appreciate.
Need proof? May we present Exhibit A- the latest in Blackwell Publishing’s continuing series on the interesting intersections between philosophy and pop culture (a series that also looks at such popular provokers and provocateurs as Jon Stewart, James Hetfield, and Jack Bauer, among many others). In this animated edition, a respected raft of philosophy professors from across the country put aside their latest treatises (or just their PS3s) to analyze the smallest brain available. In the process, many discover amazing intellectual exercises that can be demonstrated by way of Mr. Griffin and his broadcast brood. From Peter and Postmodernism and Lois’ ego to the “virtue and perversity” of Glenn Quagmire and Stewie’s seven deadly sins to questions of what makes a “real” person (and whether a talking dog can qualify) or even a real religion (it might be The Fonz) and “Petarded” introductions to God and Death themselves (whether or not you knew the dead man), this comical compendium offers an impressive array of arguments that may lead one to see Peter in a new light (or at least not just in the dark).
As a great wise man once said, philosophy is freakin’ sweet!
