Ender's Game and Philosophy: Genocide Is Child's Play

(Paperback)

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Enders Game, Orson Scott Cards award-winning 1985 novel, has been discovered and rediscovered by generations of science fiction fans, even being adopted as reading by the U.S. Marine Corps. Ender's Game and its sequels explore rich themes the violence and cruelty of children, the role of empathy in war, and the balance of individual dignity and the social good with compelling elements of a coming-of-age story. Enders Game and Philosophy brings together over 30 philosophers to engage in wide-ranging discussion on issues such as: the justifiability of pre-emptive strikes; how Enders disconnected and dispassionate violence is mirrored in todays drone warfare; whether the end of saving the species can justify the most brutal means; the justifiability of lies and deception in wartime, and how military schools produce training in virtue. The authors of Enders Game and Philosophy challenge readers to confront the challenges that Enders Game presents, bringing new insights to the idea of a just war, the virtues of the soldier, the nature of childhood, and the serious work of playing games.

Author Bio

D. E. Wittkower is assistant professor of Philosophy at Old Dominion University. Lucinda Rush is the Education Reference Librarian at Old Dominion University. She holds M.A. in Library & Information Science and Music Education.