It is unfortunate that Tallis' views seem to be rather obscure compared to the large piles of tripe put out by people such as Dennett, Dawkins, Foucault and the Churchlands.In the series of essays contained in this book Tallis mehodically dismantles many aspects of both modernism and its antithesis, post-modernism.Both have needed to have their fundamental frameworks laid bare but few have been able to cut through all the self-grandizing hyperbole to really go for the jugular.Tallis' essays demonstrate his wide range of knowledge and very perceptive views.
The first essay, "Explicitness and Truth (and Falsehood)" is worth the price of the book alone since it brings to the fore how the nature of truth itself has been obscured and twisted to suit modernism and post-modernism.Not only does Tallis' argument lay bare the problems but this is one of the few philosophical works that is quite readable.That is, Tallis' tone and style make this book quite enjoyable to read.
The "A Critical Dictionay of Neuromythology" neatly debunks the interesting variations on definitions readily invented by authors such as the Churchlands and Dennett.I suspect they will bluster and perhaps produce some responses but the true nature of their arguments, incoherence, shines forth after reading this work.
I enjoyed Tallis' references to Wittgenstein and the critique of de Saussure in addition to the other essays.Throughout the book Tallis displays a quiet brilliance that will hopefully be recognized by others in the philosophy of mind.
Enjoy.
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