There are several other inexplicable occurrences such as these in James Bond and Philosophy, but enough for picking on the book. Assuming that the authors’ interpretations of the philosophy involved is more accurate than their readings of the film, they raise some interesting points. In particular, I quite enjoyed Jerold J. Abrams piece, “The Epistemology of James Bond: The Logic of Abduction.” Not only does Abrams seem to have a good handle on the theory, but his analysis provides concrete examples within the Bond universe.
Outside of one or two small, questionable interpretations of From Russia With Love, Steven Zani’s “James Bond and Q: Heidegger’s Technology” is fascinating. As are some of the other works as well.
Mulling over James Bond and Philosophy as a whole, it is clear that while there are many fascinating ideas presented, the authors are not as proficient with the material in question as seems warranted. I have only provided a few small examples of some of the book’s shortcomings in this regard, but rest assured that multiple other ones exist. Knowing these shortcomings I still found the book a good read, even if not much could be garnered from it academically. In the end it’s a case where great ideas simply needed further research and fact-checking than seems to have been devoted to the work.
Article comments
1 - professays
James Bond has definitely the most amazing success in spite of the fact its plot hasn't been changed for years.
2 - Gordon Hauptfleisch
Congratulations! This article has been selected as an Editors' Pick.