plato and a platypus

I have long wondered why books, lectures, and the such designed for serious learning rarely do a good job of making the learning entertaining. It is a lot easier to understand a new concept when it is presented in an enjoyable fashion. This is part of the idea of the last book that I completed, Plato and a Platypus Walk into a Bar: Understanding Philosophy Through Jokes.

The book itself is only meant to give a high-level summary of historical philosophical beliefs and thought structures. So, while it is not nearly detailed enough to be a textbook, it presents a lot of concepts very concisely. The jokes are generally used to illustrate concepts or perspectives.

The following joke is used to illustrate the concept of ding an sich, which means "thing in itself," and is supposed to describe an object as it is rather than how our senses perceive it.

Secretary: "Doctor, there's an invisible man in the waiting room."
Doctor: "Tell him I can't see him."

Another joke illustrates relativity of time.

A snail was mugged by two turtles. When the police asked him what happened, he said, "I don't know. It all happened so fast."

A final joke provides a rationale for why it is important to understand the purpose of law.

A judge calls the opposing lawyers into his chambers, and says, "The reason we're here is that both of you have given me a bribe." Both lawyers squirm in their seats. "You, Alan, have given me $15,000. Phil, you gave me $10,000."

The judge hands Alan a check for $5,000 and says, "Now you're even, and I'm going to decide this case solely on its merits."

The only reason that I would hold back in recommending this book to anyone with a sense of humor is that it does contain some blue humor, though I do not think it is excessive. Other than that one thing, this book is perfect for anyone wanting to read up on serious philosophical ideas with a punchline.