How to Play Philosophy

In this insightful, original, profound yet playful, guide to the philosophical ideas which shape our daily lives, Michael Picard uses his knowledge of various disciplines and his gift for nuanced and sensitive accounts to masterfully show us how to navigate them. Written in an accessible way, this book is a remarkable initiation to philosophy and to its practice in everyday life that would benefit newcomers and seasoned philosophers alike.

-- Lydia Amir, Lecturer, Department of Philosophy at Tufts University, President, International Association for the Philosophy of Humor, and Israeli Association for Philosophical Practice

This rollicking, captivating series of essays by one of our foremost public philosophers and scholars covers a dazzling spectrum of philosophy matters. Best of all, it manages to achieve the near-impossible: namely, Michael Picard presents an in-depth look at many of the most timely and timeless existential and epistemological posers without being the least bit pretentious; and without ever making one feel the least bit obliged to stake out any particular stance, but rather to discover further and deeper her own outlook. A gift to us all, by a most gifted writer and thinker.

-- Christopher Phillips Ph.D

Michael Picard’s humorous, yet humble way of writing allows the reader to engage intimately with some of the most profound philosophical questions: turning abstract notions into urgent matters of everyday public life. Picard shows the reader that there is no philosophical discourse separated from philosophical life, just as there is no philosophical life without philosophical discourse. The essays in this book can be read on their own or in sequence. Picard’s engaging, quick-witted and accessible writing style makes this an ideal book for people of all age groups. It will inspire thinking and dialogue among experienced philosophers, newcomers and even high school students. The most play- and thoughtful introduction to philosophical thinking and living I have seen so far.

-- Barbara Weber, Associate Professor and Chair of the Interdisciplinary Studies Graduate Program, UBC, Canada

Michael Picard—one of the hardest working, most creative and dedicated scholars I know—is doing world-class work in philosophy and public education. His brilliant conceptual and practical work includes innovations as a pedagogue, translator and editor of significant contributions to the field of philosophical praxis. This original book is a case in point. How to Play Philosophy effectively disarms what so many find intimidating, inviting readers along for the ride, even allowing them to steer. The book extends his pioneering public philosophical practice, and is suffused with the same warm, evocative and dynamic style as his engaging facilitation, which always draws strong interest.

-- Yosef Wosk, Officer of the Order of Canada; member of the Order of British Columbia, djunct Professor in the Department of Humanities; Shadbolt Fellow, Simons Fellow, and Director of Interdisciplinary Programs in Continuing Stu