Title Details

Editor’s Introduction: Steven D. Hales (Bloomsburg University).

Part I: The Art of the Beer:.

1. Thirst for Authenticity: An Aesthetics of the Brewer’s Art: Dale Jacquette (Pennsylvania State University).

2. The Beer Matrix: Reality vs Facsimile in Brewing: Garrett Oliver (Brooklyn Brewery).

3. The Truth About Beer: Michael P. Lynch (University of Connecticut).

4. Good Beer, or How to Properly Dispute Taste: Peter Machamer (University of Pittsburgh).

5. Quality, Schmality: Talking Naturally about the Aesthetics of Beer; or, Why is American Beer So Lousy?: Martin Stack (Rockhurst University) and George Gale (University of Missouri).

6. Extreme Brewing in America: Sam Calagione (Dogfish Head Craft Brewing).

Part II: The Ethics of Beer: Pleasures, Freedom, and Character:.

7. Mill v. Miller, or Higher and Lower Pleasures: Steven D. Hales (Bloomsburg University).

8. Beer and Autonomy: Alan McLeod (Senior Legal Counsel for the City of Kingston, Ontario).

9. Another Pitcher? On Beer, Friendship, and Character: Jason Kawall (Colgate University).

Part III: The Metaphysics and Epistemology of Beer:.

10. Beer and Gnosis: The Mead of Inspiration: Theodore Schick (Muhlenberg College).

11. The Unreasonable Effectiveness of Beer: Neil A. Manson (University of Mississippi).

12. What’s a Beer Style?: Matt Dunn (University of Indiana at Bloomington).

Part IV: Beer in the History of Philosophy:.

13. Drink on, the Jolly Prelate Cries: David Hilbert (University of Illinois at Chicago).

14. Beer Goggles and Transcendental Idealism: Steven M. Bayne (Fairfield University).

15. Beyond Grolsch and Orval: Beer, Intoxication, and Power in Nietzsche’s Thought: Rex Welshon (University of Colorado at Colorado Springs).

Index

“It turns out that not only have reputable psychologists at well-respected institutions done experimental studies on this effect, but it also serves as a kind of foul point for various philosophical questions. The works set out to address the intersection between philosophy and areas of everyday general concern: food, wine, and beer. In addition to straightforward philosophical discussions, the volumes include historical discussions, legal questions, some personal reflections. Beer and Philosophy … includes essays that encourage the next step of engaging philosophers themselves, has the fewest contributions with only a tangential link to philosophy … and discusses a wide range of issues.” (Gastronomica, Fall 2008)

"[T]his really is a superb and accessible book, that dares to take a different angle towards beer-writing. It’s funny, knowing and well-written and much recommended" (British Guild of Beer Writers, November 2007 Newsletter)

"Much of this book is well written and interesting as well as accessible for a casual reader coming across new and interesting ideas." (What's Brewing)

“A truly well rounded view…and a critical reflection on what and how we eat can contribute to a robust enjoyment of gastronomic pleasures.” (Gourmet Retailer)

“You’re bound to come away from the reading experiences forever changed in the way you think about beer.” (Celebrator Beer News)

“Whether your glass is half full or half empty, break out your favorite beers and contemplate the Socrates and Platos of our time. Beer & Philosophy could provoke, prod, inspire and antagonize every one of the world's beer drinkers.”
-Charlie Papazian, author, The Complete Joy of Homebrewing and Microbrewed Adventures

"There has recently been a proliferation of stimulating "philosophy of" volumes, treating topics from Buffy the Vampire Slayer to poker. But what could be more philosophically worthy than that noble draught of hop and grain? Pour yourself a cold one -- preferably your favorite craft or home brew -- have a sit with this volume, and prepare to see the mysteries of the universe unravel, or at least seem a little less pressing."
-John M. Doris, Washington University in St. Louis