Midwest Book Review
Exceptionally well written, organized and presented for both an academic and non-specialist general readership.
Robert DeSalle
Thagard presents a clever juxtaposition of the physical context of balance and a broader insertion of balance as a metaphorical tool, exploring important aspects of science and philosophy alike. Unique, synthetic, and compelling.
Michael A. Ranney
From sub-atomics to global warming, neurons to societies, theory to practice—even COVID to consciousness—Balance is satisfyingly vast. Thagard’s polymathic, interdisciplinary, approachable writing produces myriad insights (regarding religion, economics, politics, Trump, tipping points, toxic metaphors, “alternative facts,” etc.). Balance aptly centralizes equilibria (and sometimes helpful imbalances!) within humanity. Integrating even art, emotions, and health (e.g., avoiding falls, anti-vaxxers, and climate change), Balance boosts readers’ intellects. Breezy-yet-deep definitions complement innumerable identity-changing explanations—particularly about how Thagard’s “metabalance” helps reveal life’s meaning.
Keith Holyoak
From the absolutely literal—how a brain out of balance brings on vertigo—to a dizzying range of metaphors spanning science, medicine, politics, literature, and art, Balance connects it all. The distinguished philosopher Paul Thagard applies his keen analytic skills to sort the all-pervasive metaphors of balance into the strong, the bogus, and the downright toxic. Like a balanced fine wine, Balance is to be enjoyed.