The Last of Us and Philosophy - (Blackwell Philosophy and Pop Culture) by Charles Joshua Horn & William Irwin (Paperback)

About the Book

"The Last of Us is a very sophisticated narrative about love, loss, and our relationships to each other in an apocalyptic setting. While it may seem that The Last of Us is just another zombie-themed story, nothing could be further from the truth. The games and HBO series are more centrally about timeless philosophical topics that focus on understanding the human condition--the series is absolutely loaded with philosophical themes. A season 2 of the HBO show series has been confirmed, and is likely to release in winter 2024, so publication can coincide with that, and ideally benefit from holiday sales. The book would cover the philosophical aspects of the original game and the sequel, with confidence that the show will eventually cover those themes"--

From the Back Cover

Did Joel do the right thing when he saved Ellie?

Are those infected by the Cordyceps conscious?

Are communities necessary for human survival and flourishing?

Should Ellie forgive Joel?

Is Abby's revenge morally justified? Is Ellie's?

The Last of Us franchise includes two of the best video games ever created and the critically acclaimed HBO series. Renowned for brilliant gameplay and world-class narrative, The Last of Us raises timeless and enduring philosophical questions. Beautiful, thrilling, and tragic, Ellie's story of survival is as philosophical as it is profound.

The Last of Us and Philosophy brings together an international team of philosophical experts and fans exploring the timeless questions raised by the video games and the show. Drawing insights ranging from Aristotle and Abby to Buddha and Bill, this book elucidates the roles that trust, community, love, justice, and hope play in The Last of Us. Twenty-four original essays cover both The Last of Us Part I and II and the HBO series, offering accessible and nuanced philosophical analysis of Naughty Dog's amazing world.

Whether you're a fan of the video games or of the HBO series, The Last of Us and Philosophy will take you on a philosophical journey where you look for the light.

About the Author

Charles Joshua Horn is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point. He specializes in early modern philosophy, and is the author of numerous peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, mostly about Gottfried Leibniz and video games.