The Simpsons and Philosophy

Is Bart Simpson the embodiment of Nietzsche’s philosophical ideal of morality? Is Maggie’s trademark silence an indicator of unparalleled wisdom? Is Homer Simpson more than a Duff-drinking, donut-consuming couch potato, as defined by Aristotelian characteristics? A unique approach to these answers is provided in The Simpsons and Philosophy: The D’oh! of Homer. These essays, written as standard philosophical rhetoric, are not tailored for the everyday fan. Yet some character analysis, such as “Thus Spake Bart,” or general essays like “The Heuristic Value of Homer,” isn’t as obscure due to the subject matter and feels more accessible than the other selections. So if you constantly wax philosophical on certain ideas behind The Simpsons, this is a book for you. If Homer’s on-screen pratfalls are enough to satisfy your needs, stick with the television show.