BioShock and Philosophy

What does BioShock teach the gamer about gaming? Should we be able to buy beauty and morality from a vending machine? Is BioShock a legitimate critique of Ayn Rand's philosophy? Did Booker ever have free will? Will humans ever be able to shoot lightning out of their hands? BioShock is a critically acclaimed first-person shooter video game first released in 2007. While gamers still thrill at taking down a rivet gun-wielding Big Daddy, what truly impresses BioShock aficionados is its incredibly immersive environment-from the atmospheric retro music and chilling audio diaries to a compelling storyline inspired by the controversial philosophy of Ayn Rand. Setting aside the eye-popping visuals of the game's nightmarish underwater dystopia, players must confront a remarkable series of philosophical choices based on morality, free will, and human nature. BioShock and Philosophy features a collection of serious philosophical reflections on questions raised during the course of BioShock game play. Various philosophers consider a wide range of thought-provoking topics and ideas, including the accuracy of game developer Ken Levine's depiction of Rand's philosophy. As well as some of humanity's deepest mysteries, other topics include: The ethical concerns raised by the technologically advanced society portrayed in BioShock Marxist philosophy in relation to the underground insurgency of Vox Populi Questions of identity in relation to body and soul raised by Elizabeth's ability to manipulate tears that exist in the fabric of time And what about the possibility of a future dystopian nightmare created by a real-life Andrew Ryan? If that ever happens, the intriguing philosophical musings of BioShock and Philosophy may just help prepare us for such a truly frightening scenario. Considered a sign of the coming of age of video games as an artistic medium, the award-winning BioShock franchise covers vast philosophical ground. BioShock and Philosophy presents expert reflections by philosophers (and Bioshock connoisseurs) on this critically acclaimed and immersive fan favorite.