Nasty, Brutish, and Short: Adventures in Philosophy with Kids

Scott Hershovitz, a University of Michigan professor of philosophy and law, explores how children engage with fundamental philosophical questions. Drawing on conversations with his two young sons, Rex and Hank, Hershovitz demonstrates that kids naturally raise and debate questions about metaphysics, morality, rights, authority, gender, race, truth, knowledge, God, and the meaning of life—often without formal training in philosophy. Hershovitz argues that children are philosophers who recreate ancient arguments and develop new ones. Through everyday scenarios—such as whether it's acceptable to swear or if the number six exists—he traces how young thinkers grapple with classic and contemporary philosophical problems. By engaging with children's philosophical inquiries, Hershovitz suggests, adults can develop sharper thinking skills and recover a sense of wonder about the world. The book was recognized as an NPR Best Book of 2022 and one of Christian Science Monitor's 10 best books of May.