Book Review: "I've Been Thinking" by Daniel C. Dennett

As you know, I've been living in Nottingham for a few months now and it's February, but I still haven't made any friends. This means that more often than not, I have stayed in my apartment when not at work because I have quite literally nowhere I need to go. After my mental health going into the gutter I decided to book a doctor's appointment (yes, it's become that bad) and until the time for it came, I wandered around the streets of the city centre. This is where the independent bookshop Five Leaves comes in. I had been meaning to visit for a while but couldn't find the time or reason to go. Now, with both at hand, I picked up a couple of books and this was one of them. At the Caffé Nero the next day - I sat and read most of the book, much to the surprise of some unusual on-lookers who, everytime I lifted by head, would give me a strange glance as if they'd never seen anyone read in a cafe before. But here we are...

Dennett begins by recounting his childhood and the intellectual environment that shaped his curiosity. Born in 1942, he was raised in an academic household where books, debate, and critical thinking were encouraged. His father was an intelligence officer and scholar, and his mother played a crucial role in fostering his early love for knowledge. Dennett describes how his fascination with philosophy began at a young age, influenced by his encounters with science, literature, and religion. He reflects on how his early education instilled in him a love for inquiry, a trait that would define his career. In the prologue though, he shows his questioning look towards religion, something that I often joked to my brother about as being the 'final boss' if Jordan B Peterson was in fact, a video game character. One thing I found fascinating about his upbringing is the sheer amount of opportunity he had - this guy had privilege and luck literally coming from everywhere. It is made even more apparent as the book goes on.

Dennett’s academic journey took him to Harvard University, where he studied under philosophers such as Willard Van Orman Quine. He was exposed to rigorous analytical philosophy, which played a significant role in shaping his thinking. Later, he pursued a doctorate at the University of Oxford under the supervision of Gilbert Ryle, a leading figure in philosophy of mind. Ryle’s scepticism of Cartesian dualism—the idea that mind and body are separate—greatly influenced Dennett’s own views. Throughout this section, Dennett describes his interactions with leading intellectuals and how their debates helped refine his own perspectives. Who can say that they have ever been noticed by a professor this way no matter how hard they work? Absolutely not me and I went to a pretty good university. I remember that in the book he talks about teaching Medieval Philosophy without knowing a thing about it and therefore, having to read a few chapters ahead of the students every lecture. If this isn't a life of privilege I don't know what is.

Throughout his career, Dennett has faced criticism, not only from religious thinkers but also from fellow philosophers and scientists. He discusses some of the major intellectual battles he has fought, particularly over consciousness, free will, and artificial intelligence. He shares stories of contentious debates, letters of criticism from colleagues, and moments when his ideas were misunderstood. Yet, he maintains that these challenges have only strengthened his resolve and deepened his thinking. I think I was astounded by the fact that this guy basically has a degree in philosophy and people with degrees in law and science are taking him seriously. I mean, I have degrees in English and nobody takes me seriously. It's fascinating to read about someone who broke that wall and is actually considered a fellow intellectual. I would like to do the same so I have to say: I am a fan.

Dennett also reflects on his role as a teacher and mentor. He has spent decades teaching philosophy, and in this section, he shares anecdotes from the classroom, discussing how he has tried to make complex ideas accessible to students. He expresses deep appreciation for the importance of intellectual engagement and the power of asking good questions. Teaching, he argues, is not just about imparting knowledge but about fostering curiosity and critical thinking in others. If only schools knew this then we would have it much easier. A knowledge-based curriculum does not mean cramming the student's head with knowledge, but perhaps teaching one thing well. It might take a long time, but that is one thing known better than they knew it before, and in real detail as well.

I’ve Been Thinking is not just an autobiography—it is a philosophical reflection on a life devoted to inquiry. Dennett offers readers a deeply personal account of how he became one of the most influential thinkers of his time. His storytelling is engaging, often humorous, and always intellectually stimulating. For those interested in philosophy, science, and the nature of human thought, this book provides both a fascinating life story and an insightful exploration of some of the biggest questions in philosophy.