Straw Dogs by John Gray

"Straw Dogs" is a philosophical critique of modern humanism and the belief in human progress. The book challenges the commonly held views that humans are fundamentally different from other animals and that they can shape the world according to their will. Drawing on an eclectic mix of Western philosophy, Eastern mysticism, and scientific knowledge, the author argues that human life is no more significant than that of straw dogs, which were used as ritual objects in ancient Chinese sacrifices and then discarded. The book presents a radical perspective that calls into question many of the foundational assumptions of Western thought, ultimately suggesting that humans should embrace a more humble, realistic understanding of their place in the world.

Published
2002
Nationality
British
Type
Fiction
Pages
200-250
Words
Unknown
Original Language
English