On desire

why we want what we want

By Irvine, William D.

Publishers Summary:
Desires often come to us unbidden and unwanted, and they can have a dramatic impact, sometimes changing the course of our lives. Philosopher Irvine takes us on a wide-ranging tour of our impulses, wants, and needs, showing us where these feelings come from and how we can try to rein them in. Irvine considers the teachings of religion as well as ancient and modern philosophers, looks at what modern science can tell us about desire--what happens in the brain when we desire something and how animals evolved particular desires--and advances a new theory about how desire itself evolved. Brimming with wisdom and practical advice, On Desire offers a thoughtful approach to controlling unwanted passions and attaining a more meaningful life.--From publisher description.

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ISBN
978-0-19518-862-2
Publisher
Oxford ; Oxford University Press, c2006.


REVIEWS

Library Journal

Reviewed on December 15, 2005

Irvine (philosophy, Wright State Univ.) believes that while some desires develop from our rational concerns, others simply appear unbidden - and those are by no means restricted to our natural appetites and bodily responses. Here he explores desire through discussions of psychology, "biological incentive," "the human condition," religion, and philosophy. His account of "religious advice," particularly the long discussion about ...Log In or Sign Up to Read More

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