The Meaning of Things is a collection of short essays on what might
be called practical, or applied philosophy. Readers of the Saturday
Review section of the British Guardian newspaper will recognise
them as articles originally issued as the 'Last Word' column. The
collection opens with a pertinent epigram from Antoine de
Saint-Exupery, which may be considered an apologia for what follows
and a warning to readers. It reads: 'The meaning of things lies not
in things themselves, but in our attitudes to them'. Dr Grayling,
Reader in Philosophy at Birkbeck College, University of London
invites us to examine those attitudes rationally. A book full of
wisdom may miss its aim if the reader mistakes the purpose of the
book and so expects something of it which it was never intended to
provide. So, it is a wise author who not only sets down what wisdom
he has at his command, but prefaces his thoughts with an indication
of what he has intended to offer. A C Grayling appears to me to be
such an author, and gives an early indication of his modus operandi
by quoting Julius Hare in dissuading readers who come looking for
ready-made opinions to adopt, encouraging them rather to search
here for materials to build their own opinions from. Grayling does
not, however, shy away from the bold statement of a truth that he
sees as axiomatic. While this is often a device to limit the scope
of an argument and retain focus on the topic at hand on other
occasions it seems like a summary dismissal of those ideas, actions
or people he sees as insupportable. In either instance it does not
diminish the usefulness of the book in its stated aim as an
incitement to further investigation. The Meaning of Things is
written in a simple, clear style encouraging even those who may
have thought of philosophy as a topic too cerebral for them. It is
therefore the ideal introduction to a study of ethics, or simply of
one's own life and motivations. The author emerges as intelligent,
humane and confident and it is understandable that a pedagogic tone
is sometimes evident. I can thoroughly recommend The Meaning of
Things to anyone who thinks it important to examine their
fundamental beliefs. To anyone who does not, I would recommend it
even more strongly. (Kirkus UK)
Thinking about life, what it means and what it holds in store does not have to be a despondent experience, but rather can be enlightening and uplifting. A life truly worth living is one that is informed and considered, so a degree of philosophical insight into the human condition is inherently important. This valuable guide explains what is truly important in living life, whether facing success, failure, justice, wrong, love, loss or any of the other profound experiences life throws out.
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