Arguing that humans are more than "accidental mistakes" or "assemblies of nerve-cells" British philosopher and Anglican priest, Ward, presents a defense of idealism. He points to areas of scientific study which show the limitations of the philosophy of materialism and refutes the ideas of his former professor Gilbert Ryle, known for his critique of Cartesian dualism. Ward presents views on different theories of the relationship between body and mind, ultimately concluding "The argument for idealism stands on its own, and it offers a view of human life that stands in stark opposition to the materialism that characterizes many popularizations of modern scientific thought." A glossary and short bibliography are included. Annotation 2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
