The Bottom Line
Pros
- One of the best books written for dads who enjoy philosophy
- Wide range of essays from the esoteric to the practical
- Will make any reader think more about a father’s important role
- Illustrates the changing attitudes toward fathers in history
Cons
- While some of the essays are lighter reading, others are fairly demanding
Description
- Fatherhood is a book of essays that will challenge your thinking abour fatherhood
- For men who like to consider their role in the overall scheme of life, this is a welcome book
- From the western philosophers to those of Africa and Asia, the essays will bring a sense of import to the role of a father
Guide Review - Fatherhood - Philosophy for Everyone: The Dao of Daddy
Fatherhood-Philosophy for Everyone: The Dao of Daddy is a collection of essays by fathers and philosophers that includes practical advice as well as the underlying philosophies of fathering. The practical is real and useful, including helping kids handle the media and the benefits of cookie baking (including recipes). But the essence of this book is the underlying deep significance of the role of a father in his children's lives.
Editors Lon Nease and Michael Austin are professors of philosophy at the University of Cincinnati and Eastern Kentucky University respectively and grows out of their experience as academic philosophers and fathers. The collection of essays is more than simply thought-provoking. The essays made me laugh at times but more often I had to stop after a meaning-filled sentence and just reflect. Fathers today can use a bit more reflection and this book will help you do it.
The book is divided into four sections:
- The Impact of Being a Father
- Ethics and Parenting Styles
- Keeping It Real - Authentic Fatherhood
- Dilemmas for Dad
Fatherhood - Philosophy for Everyone: The Dao of Daddy took me several days off and on to read. I found myself stopping and thinking far more than I actually read. This book was both eye opener and conversation starter for me. After I read the book, I had the chance to visit with my children about their thoughts about fatherhood, and we had some great discussions focused on these essays and their insight into the meaning of fatherhood. I recommend this to any father who needs a bit of a reminder of what it means to be a father and how we should think about our roles. If you are in the mood for a book that is at once engaging, thought provoking and a pleasant read, then Fatherhood - Philosophy for Everyone: The Dao of Daddy is a book you need in your personal library.
