Title
Voltaire's Bastards: The Dictatorship of Reason in the West,Used
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With a new Introduction by the author, this erudite and brilliantly readable book (The Observer, London) expertly dissects the political, economic, and social origins of Western civilization to reveal a culture cripplingly enslaved to crude notions of rationality and expertise.With a new introduction by the author, this erudite and brilliantly readable book (The Observer, London) astutely dissects the political, economic and social origins of Western civilization to reveal a culture cripplingly enslaved to crude notions of rationality and expertise.The Western world is full of paradoxes. We talk endlessly of individual freedom, yet weve never been under more pressure to conform. Our business leaders describe themselves as capitalists, yet most are corporate employees and financial speculators. We call our governments democracies, yet few of us participate in politics. We complain about invasive government, yet our legal, educational, financial, social, cultural and legislative systems are deteriorating.All these problems, John Ralston Saul argues, are largely the result of our blind faith in the value of reason. Over the past 400 years, our rational elites have turned the modern West into a vast, incomprehensible, directionless machine, run by processminded expertsVoltaires bastardswhose cult of scientific management is empty of both sense and morality. Whether in politics, art, business, the military, entertainment, science, finance, academia or journalism, these experts share the same outlook and methods. The result, Saul maintains, is a civilization of immense technological power whose ordinary citizens are increasingly excluded from the decisionmaking process.In this wideranging anatomy of modern society and its originswhose pages explode with insight, style and intellectual rigor (Camille Paglia, The Washington Post)Saul presents a shattering critique of the political, economic and cultural establishments of the West.
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- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: This book has six hundred fifty-six pages. It provides an in-depth exploration of Western civilization and its complexities.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The book is a paperback edition. This makes it lightweight and portable, ideal for casual reading.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The dimensions of the book are five point five one inches by five point five nine inches by eight point three nine inches. These sizes make it easy to handle and store.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of this book is John Ralston Saul. He is known for his insightful critiques on societal structures.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: The book falls under the genre of Civilization and Culture. It delves into the philosophical and historical aspects of Western society.
- Q: How can I read this book? A: You can read this book at your own pace. It’s suitable for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Western civilization.
- Q: Is this book suitable for academic study? A: Yes, this book is suitable for academic study. It provides a critical analysis that can support various educational topics.
- Q: What age group is this book appropriate for? A: This book is appropriate for adults and mature readers. It tackles complex themes that require a certain level of maturity.
- Q: How should I store this book? A: Store this book in a cool, dry place to maintain its condition. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Q: Can I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: Yes, you can clean the book gently. Use a soft, dry cloth to remove any dust or smudges from the cover.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you can return it for a refund or replacement. Be sure to follow the return policy guidelines.
- Q: Is this book available in other formats? A: Currently, this book is only available in paperback format. There are no digital or hardcover editions listed.
- Q: Are there any similar books I should consider? A: If you enjoy this book, you might consider reading other works on Western philosophy and culture. Titles by authors like Camille Paglia could be of interest.
- Q: Does this book have a specific audience? A: Yes, the book is targeted towards readers interested in philosophy, politics, and cultural critique. It appeals to those who enjoy deep analytical perspectives.
- Q: What themes are explored in the book? A: The book explores themes of reason, societal structure, and the critique of modern Western civilization. It challenges prevailing notions of rationality.
- Q: Is there an introduction by the author? A: Yes, there is a new introduction by the author. It provides additional context and insight into the book's themes and relevance.