Russell Blackford is an Australian writer, philosopher, and critic, known for his incisive examination of science fiction and speculative fiction. His work often delves into the ethical, social, and philosophical implications of science and technology, challenging our understanding of humanity. Blackford's style is both analytical and accessible, allowing readers to engage with complex ideas with clarity. He explores how fiction shapes our perceptions of the future and how it can help us navigate present-day challenges.
In a time when liberalism struggles to maintain its influence on public policy and personal behavior, Russell Blackford explores the potential decline of these ideas. He questions whether liberalism is indeed finished, delving into its relevance and future in a post-liberal world. Through critical analysis, Blackford examines the challenges facing liberalism and its possible resurgence, inviting readers to reflect on its role in contemporary society.
We live in an age of ideology, propaganda, and tribalism. Political conformity is enforced from many sides; the insidious social control that John Stuart Mill called “the tyranny of the prevailing opinion and feeling.” Liberal or left-minded people are often more afraid of each other than of their conservative or right wing opponents. Social media and call-out-culture makes it easier to name, shame, ostracize and harass non-conformists, and destroys careers and lives. How can we oppose this, regaining freedom and our sense of ourselves as individuals? The Tyranny of Opinion identifies the problem, defines its character, and proposes strategies of resistance. Russell Blackford calls for an end to ideological purity policing and for recommitment to the foundational liberal values of individual liberty and spontaneity, free inquiry, diverse opinion, and honest debate.
In this highly original book, Russell Blackford discusses the intersection of science fiction and humanity's moral imagination.
Exploring morality as a human construct, this work presents a skeptical and pragmatic perspective on moral authority. It engages in a thoughtful examination of moral philosophy, drawing on the ideas of notable thinkers such as Thomas Hobbes, David Hume, and J.L. Mackie. The author maintains intellectual rigor and fairness towards opposing viewpoints, contributing to a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding moral judgments and their foundations.
The book explores the implications of emerging biotechnologies that manipulate human genetics, addressing objections from various societal figures. It delves into the intersection of genetic enhancement technologies and liberal thought, focusing on public policy issues from legal and political angles. Contrary to the belief that strict regulation is necessary, the author argues that the real challenge lies in the fear these technologies invoke, which threatens the very essence of liberal tolerance and democratic values.
Discovering the DNA of the great ape King Kong, Jack Denham, grandson of the moviemaker who had brought Kong to New York in 1933, classhes with ruthless business tycoon Carlton Hemming as both men attempt to clone the giant ape, only to discover that the monstrous creature that results must be returned to Skull Island. Original.