Peanuts and Philosophy

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 were disappointed every time? What can Linuss reactions to the leukemia of his friend Janice tell us about the stages of grief? Why dont we settle whats right and whats wrong by the simple method of asking Lucy? Is true happiness attainable without a warm puppy? Do some peoples kites have a natural affinity for trees? Is Sally an anarchist, a nihilist, or just a contrarian? Does Linuss reliance on his blanket help him or hurt him? Is Charlie Browns 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 Charlies devotion to the Little Red-Haired Girl; Snoopys Red Baron and history as selective memory; the Head Beagle as Big Brother. And, as we would expect, Lucys repeated cruel removal of Charlie's football has several philosophical applications.