We human beings are conscious, thinking, and responsible agents. However, science has revealed that we are also natural products of evolution, composed of simple biochemical components. How do these two aspects of humanity coincide?

Tadeusz Zawidzki outlines Dennett’s reconciliation of three major components — thought, consciousness, and freedom of the will — with what science tells us about human nature. The book highlights the important role that Darwinian thinking plays in Dennett’s proposed reconciliation, as well as his innovative proposals regarding the ‘reality’ of our consciousness and its attributes. Exploring concepts of the self, of mind and body, of machines and virtual reality, of evolution and the meaning of life, Dennett’s work is studied by psychologists and philosophers alike. This witty and readable book is an invaluable guide to one of today’s most important and well-known thinkers.

Tadeusz Zawidzki is Assistant Professor of Philosophy at George Washington University. He lives in Washington, DC.

“This is clearly the best introduction to Dennett's thought that has been published so far. It's as good a place for someone to begin their philosophical education as for someone else to enrich one they already have.”
Don Ross – Professor of Philosophy, University of Alabama at Birmingham

“Zawidzki reveals the systematic structure of my work as never before, and shows, just how and why the parts fit together as they do. His exposition is accurate, vivid and fair.”
Daniel Dennett – Director of The Centre For Cognitive Studies and Austin B. Fletcher Professor of Philosophy, Tufts University