Does the world need bad men?

Does Rust really know who he is?

Is the light winning?

And why life rather than death?

As arguably one of the most existential flagship series in modern times, True Detective's spine-chilling storylines have attracted a fervently questioning fan-base, alongside significant online coverage and fan sites, inspiring substantial philosophical debate from both fans and serious philosophers alike. True Detective and Philosophy delves into the many existential and ethical questions that arise in this darkly complex, character-driven series.

Investigating the deep philosophical issues behind the show's characters and engrossing narratives, these eighteen original essays explore questions that include: Why Life Rather Than Death? Cosmic Horror and Hopeful Pessimism, the Illusion of Self, Noir, Tragedy, Philosopher-Detectives, and more.

Essential reading for fans and philosophers, the stimulating chapters in True Detective and Philosophy accessibly explore the deeper meanings behind this genre-expanding crime show.

Jacob Graham is Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Bridgewater College in Bridgewater, Virginia. His research focuses on ancient and modern philosophy, as well the value of philosophy in popular culture.

Tom Sparrow is Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Slippery Rock University, Pennsylvania. His primary research is in continental philosophy and phenomenology. His recent publications include Plastic Bodies (2015) and The End of Phenomenology (2014).

William Irwin (series editor) is Herve A. LeBlanc Distinguished Service Professor and Chair of Philosophy at King's College in Pennsylvania. Irwin originated the philosophy and popular culture genre of books with Seinfeld and Philosophy in 1999 and is the General Editor of The Blackwell Philosophy and Pop Culture series. He has overseen recent titles including The Ultimate Star Wars and Philosophy, Wonder Woman and Philosophy, and Alien and Philosophy.