In this accessible and stimulating book, Michael C. LaBossiere takes a provocative look at issues in contemporary politics, culture and society through the lens of philosophy. Collected from LaBossiere’s regular column in The Philosopher’s Magazine, this fascinating set of philosophical provocations assumes no background in philosophy and focuses on matters that are of popular interest to the general public, yet are also philosophically significant. Topics range across a whole host of controversial issues that are of genuine interest to the reader, including same sex marriage, video games, gene therapy, true love, chance, torture, gender, God, the media, and freedom.
LaBossiere approaches each issue in a fascinatingly philosophical manner, providing an appealing alternative to the vast volume of strident and irrational approaches that are all too common in today’s media. Articulate, timely and, above all, provocative, this exciting book is a must-read for anyone with an interest in philosophy and current affairs.

Part I: Metaphysics and Epistemology
The Mind
God and Purpose
Scepticism
Love
Time and Chance

Part II: Values: Ethics and Social and Political Thought
Gender and Ethics
Technology and Ethics
Medical Ethics
Media and Ethics
Animals
Art and Ethics
Philosophers, Atheists, Choosers and Frauds
Political and Social Thought

Michael C. LaBossiere is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, USA. His 'Philosophical Provocations' column appears regularly in The Philosopher's Magazine and on the magazine's website.