In Peanuts and Philosophy, twenty philosophers, from a diverse range of perspectives, look at different aspects of the Peanuts canon. How can the thoughts of children, who have yet to become grown-up, help us to become more grown up ourselves? Do we get good results from believing in something like the Great Pumpkin, even though weâre disappointed every time? What can Linusâs reactions to the leukemia of his friend Janice tell us about the stages of grief? Why donât we settle whatâs right and whatâs wrong by the simple method of asking Lucy? Is true happiness attainable without a warm puppy? Do some peopleâs kites have a natural affinity for trees? Is Sally an anarchist, a nihilist, or just a contrarian? Does Linusâs reliance on his blanket help him or hurt him? Is Charlie Brownâs philosophy of life pathetic or inspirational? Other topics include: how the way children think carries general lessons about transcending our limitations; the Utopian quest as illustrated by Charlieâs devotion to the Little Red-Haired Girl; Snoopyâs Red Baron and history as selective memory; the Head Beagle as Big Brother. And, as we would expect, Lucyâs repeated cruel removal of Charlie's football has several philosophical applications.
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