Jim Henson and Philosophy

Jim Henson’s creations have inspired generations with characters that are among the world’s most recognizable cultural icons. From Kermit the Frog Miss Piggy and their Muppet friends to the legendary Sesame Street and Children’s Television Workshop Henson revolutionized children’s educational entertainment. Combining live action and puppeteering into fantastical narratives like The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth as well as the whimsical Fraggle Rock and The Storyteller Henson transformed imagination into reality weaving together powerful philosophical messages on identity community diversity love death and friendship. Henson never shied away from exploring deep questions nor did he underestimate the ability of children (or adults) to grapple with profound philosophical questions. Jim Henson and Philosophy explores the entertaining and educational world of the genius’s creations revealing what it is about Henson’s world that has touched us so deeply and improved our lives in such meaningful ways.Contributions by: Lauren Ashwell Kimberly Baltzer-Jaray David R. Burns Samantha Brennan Amanda Cawston Brooke Covington Christopher M. Culp Ryan Cox Natalie M. Fletcher Victoria Hubbell Dena Hurst Christopher Ketcham S. Evan Kreider Shaun Leonard Jennifer Marra Michael J. Muniz Laurel Ralston Rhona Trauvitch and Sheryl Tuttle Ross