Member-only story

The Who and Philosophy: The Philosophy of Popular Culture

Leo Tolstoy

·16k Followers· Follow

Published in The Who And Philosophy (The Philosophy Of Popular Culture)

5 min read · 3 weeks before

568 View Claps

73 Respond

Save

Listen

William Irwin

The Who and Philosophy (The Philosophy of Popular Culture)

by Casey Harison

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1278 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	363 pages

The Who are one of the most influential rock bands of all time. Their music has been praised for its originality, its energy, and its emotional power. But The Who are more than just a great rock band. Their music is also a rich source of philosophical insights.

In The Who and Philosophy: The Philosophy of Popular Culture, William Irwin explores the philosophical themes that run through The Who's music. He argues that The Who's songs are not just mindless entertainment. They are also works of art that can teach us about ourselves and the world around us.

The Philosophy of The Who

Irwin identifies four main philosophical themes in The Who's music: existentialism, nihilism, anarchism, and mysticism.

Existentialism is the belief that human beings are free and responsible for their own choices. The Who's songs often explore the existential themes of freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning in life.
Nihilism is the belief that life is meaningless and that there is no point in striving for anything. The Who's songs often express a sense of nihilism, but they also offer a glimmer of hope in the face of despair.
Anarchism is the belief that government is unnecessary and that individuals should be free to live their lives as they see fit. The Who's songs often express a sense of anarchism, but they also recognize the need for some form of social Free Download.
Mysticism is the belief that there is a spiritual realm beyond the physical world. The Who's songs often explore mystical themes, such as the search for enlightenment and the connection between the human and the divine.

The Who's Greatest Hits

Irwin examines some of The Who's greatest hits in detail, including "My Generation," "Substitute," "Won't Get Fooled Again," and "Baba O'Riley." He shows how these songs embody the philosophical themes that run through The Who's music.

"My Generation" is a classic existential anthem. The song celebrates the freedom and energy of youth, but it also acknowledges the challenges and frustrations that young people face.
"Substitute" is a song about alienation and loneliness. The song's protagonist is a young man who feels like he doesn't belong. He tries to find a substitute for the love and connection that he craves, but he ultimately fails.
"Won't Get Fooled Again" is a song about nihilism and the futility of trying to change the world. The song's protagonist is a disillusioned young man who has lost faith in the establishment. He believes that the world is controlled by a corrupt elite, and that there is no point in trying to fight against them.
"Baba O'Riley" is a song about mysticism and the search for enlightenment. The song's protagonist is a young man who is searching for meaning in life. He finds solace in music and spirituality, and he ultimately comes to believe that there is a divine force in the universe.

The Who and Philosophy is a fascinating and thought-provoking book. Irwin's analysis of The Who's music is both insightful and accessible. He shows how The Who's songs can teach us about ourselves and the world around us. Whether you are a fan of The Who or not, The Who and Philosophy is a book that you will find rewarding.

About the Author

William Irwin is a professor of philosophy at King's College London. He is the author of several books on philosophy and popular culture, including The Simpsons and Philosophy and Game of Thrones and Philosophy.

The Who and Philosophy (The Philosophy of Popular Culture)

by Casey Harison

5 out of 5