Plato at the Googleplex: Why Philosophy Won’t Go Away – Rebecca Goldstein

1. Full Citation

Goldstein, R. (2014) Plato at the Googleplex: Why Philosophy Won’t Go Away. New York: Pantheon Books.

2. Introduction

Plato at the Googleplex is a contemporary philosophical exploration blending classical philosophy with modern culture and technology. Rebecca Goldstein engages with Plato’s ideas and their relevance in the digital age, arguing for philosophy’s enduring importance.

3. Author Background and Credentials

Rebecca Goldstein is a philosopher, novelist, and public intellectual known for her work on the history of philosophy and her ability to make philosophy accessible to broad audiences.

4. Summary of Contents

Key themes include:

  1. Philosophy and Modernity
    • The continuing relevance of classical philosophy.
  2. Plato’s Legacy
    • Dialogues with contemporary thinkers.
  3. Philosophy in the Digital Age
    • Challenges and opportunities for philosophical thought.
  4. Ethics and Technology
    • Moral questions raised by new technologies.
  5. Public Philosophy
    • Philosophy’s role in culture and society.

5. Critical Evaluation

a. Coherence and Argumentation

Engaging and well-structured integration of past and present ideas.

b. Originality and Intellectual Contribution

Bridges ancient philosophy with contemporary issues creatively.

c. Evidence, Sources, and Method

Interdisciplinary approach combining philosophy, history, and cultural critique.

d. Style and Accessibility

Readable and thought-provoking for both specialists and lay readers.

e. Limitations and Critiques

Some may find the interdisciplinary approach diffuse.

6. Comparative Context

Compared with:

  • Bryan Magee’s The Story of Philosophy – Philosophical history
  • Martha Nussbaum’s Not for Profit – Philosophy and society
  • Peter Singer’s The Life You Can Save – Ethics and modern challenges

7. Thematic or Disciplinary Relevance

Relevant to:

  • Philosophy of technology and culture
  • History of philosophy
  • Ethics and public philosophy
  • Contemporary philosophy

8. Reflection or Practical Application

Encourages reflection on philosophy’s place in modern life and technological society.

9. Conclusion

Plato at the Googleplex thoughtfully demonstrates philosophy’s ongoing vitality in the 21st century.

Recommended for: Philosophers, students, and readers interested in the interface of philosophy and modern culture.

10. Other Works by the Same Author

  • The Mind-Body Problem
  • 36 Arguments for the Existence of God

11. Similar Books by Other Authors

  • Bryan Magee – The Story of Philosophy
  • Martha Nussbaum – Not for Profit
  • Peter Singer – The Life You Can Save

12. References (only if external works are cited)

  • Goldstein, R. (2014) Plato at the Googleplex
  • Magee, B. (1998) The Story of Philosophy
  • Nussbaum, M. (2010) Not for Profit
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