Title
The Quiet Before: On the Unexpected Origins of Radical Ideas,Used
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A NEW YORK TIMES NOTABLE BOOK ?NEW YORK TIMES EDITORS?CHOICE ?An ?legantly argued and exuberantly narrated?(The New York Times Book Review) look at the building of social movementsfrom the 1600s to the presentand how current technology is undermining them? bravura work of scholarship and reporting, featuring amazing individuals and dramatic events from seventeenthcentury France to Rome, Moscow, Cairo, and contemporary Minneapolis.?Louis Menand, author of The Free WorldWe tend to think of revolutions as loud: frustrations and demands shouted in the streets. But the ideas fueling them have traditionally been conceived in much quieter spaces, in the small, secluded corners where a vanguard can whisper among themselves, imagine alternate realities, and deliberate about how to achieve their goals. This extraordinary book is a search for those spaces, over centuries and across continents, and a warning thatin a world dominated by social mediathey might soon go extinct.Gal Beckerman, an editor at The New York Times Book Review, takes us back to the seventeenth century, to the correspondence that jumpstarted the scientific revolution, and then forward through time to examine engines of social change: the petitions that secured the right to vote in 1830s Britain, the zines that gave voice to women? rage in the early 1990s, and even the messaging apps used by epidemiologists fighting the pandemic in the shadow of an inept administration. In each case, Beckerman shows that our most defining social movementsfrom decolonization to feminismwere formed in quiet, closed networks that allowed a small group to incubate their ideas before broadcasting them widely.But Facebook and Twitter are replacing these productive, private spaces, to the detriment of activists around the world. Why did the Arab Spring fall apart? Why did Occupy Wall Street never gain traction? Has Black Lives Matter lived up to its full potential? Beckerman reveals what this new social media ecosystem lackseverything from patience to focusand offers a recipe for growing radical ideas again.Lyrical and profound, The Quiet Before looks to the past to help us imagine a different future.
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- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: This book has three hundred fifty-two pages. It's a comprehensive read that delves into historical social movements.
- Q: What is the binding type of the book? A: The book is hardcover. This ensures durability and a premium feel for readers.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six point three five inches in length, one point two inches in width, and nine point five seven inches in height.
- Q: What category does this book fall under? A: This book is categorized as Historical Study & Educational Resources. It explores the origins of radical ideas across history.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author is Gal Beckerman. He is an editor at The New York Times Book Review and wrote this insightful analysis.
- Q: What is the central theme of the book? A: The book examines the quieter origins of social movements. It highlights how private discussions have shaped significant ideas historically.
- Q: Is this book suitable for educational purposes? A: Yes, it is suitable for educational purposes. Its analysis of social movements makes it a valuable resource for students and educators.
- Q: What is the reading level for this book? A: The reading level is suitable for adults and advanced high school students. It contains complex themes and historical analyses.
- Q: How should I store this book? A: Store the book in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve its quality and appearance.
- Q: Can I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: Yes, you can clean the book gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions to prevent damage.
- Q: Is this book appropriate for younger audiences? A: No, this book is not particularly appropriate for younger audiences. Its themes and analyses are aimed at an adult readership.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact customer support for a return or exchange. They will guide you through the process.
- Q: Does this book include illustrations or photos? A: No, this book does not include illustrations or photos. It focuses on textual analysis and historical narratives.
- Q: Is this book available in other formats? A: Currently, this book is only available in hardcover format. There are no digital or paperback versions listed.
- Q: What makes this book different from others in its genre? A: This book uniquely emphasizes the quieter origins of radical ideas, contrasting with the louder public protests typically associated with social movements.
- Q: Are there any notable endorsements for this book? A: Yes, it's endorsed as a New York Times Notable Book and described as 'elegantly argued' by The New York Times Book Review.