New book confirms what geeks suspected all along: 'The Simpsons' is the crowning achievement of Western thought.

"The Simpsons and Philosophy: The D'oh! Of Homer" proves once and for all that The Simpsons is the most intelligent and intellectual show on TV. This isn't news to "Simpsons" geeks, who have carved a deep intellectual niche on the Web, dissecting plots, analyzing themes, and memorizing line after brilliant line.

"Simpsons" scholardom knows no limits, and "The Simpsons and Philosophy" is a shining example of the breadth of the genre. Even if you don't consider yourself a "Simpsons" fan (I'd like to meet a self-respecting geek who isn't), this provocative text will open your eyes to the philosophical significance of what some consider a brainless, 2D cartoon.

Throughout this collection of 18 essays, the authors explore the philosophical contributions of Aristotle, Sartre, Marx, Camus, Heidegger, and Kant via in-depth analyses of episodes and characters from "The Simpsons." These essays also explore such lofty topics as hyperirony, the meaning of life, American anti-intellectualism, and existential rebellion, all within the life and times of Springfield.

Have you ever found yourself pondering these questions: How moral is Homer? Is hypocrisy always unethical? Why do we find Homer so charming? What can we learn from Lisa about American anti-intellectualism? Is there meaning behind Maggie's silence? Why is Marge so morally motivated? Does Nietzsche justify Bart's bad behavior? "The Simpsons and Philosophy" answers them all.

My favorite chapter examines why Lisa sometimes breaks the rules to "feel" something deeper in life by playing a soulful riff on her saxophone, rather than following her teacher's structured instructions.

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