Travel back in time to the Enlightenment era and discover how European thinkers envisioned the future of their continent. Uncover the thoughts of famous philosophers like Rousseau, Voltaire, and Kant, as well as lesser-known voices, in the new book The Idea of Europe: Enlightenment Perspectives. Immerse yourself in debates on political unity, military power, and trade that still ring true today.

Are you looking for insights into China's strategic tradition and universal military truths? Look no further than Sunzi's "Art of War". This military classic has been mined for wisdom by military and business leaders alike, but to truly understand its unique perspective, readers must approach it from the worldview of its author. In this fascinating article from The Conversation, a researcher delves into the Daoist roots of Sunzi's philosophy and explains how understanding the concept of 'shì' and acting with "wúwéi" can help leaders nurture potential and achieve success.

The French Enlightenment's brightest stars assembled to produce the first encyclopedia, a rational dictionary of the arts, sciences, and crafts. The encyclopedia is a testament to France's crisis of authority, evidence of popular opinions migration from pulpit and pew to cafe, salon, and press. The encyclopedia is many things: a cornerstone of the Enlightenment, a key statement of the French Enlightenment, and a masterpiece that is irrepressibly human. The work is based on the mind's approaches to reality: memory, reason, and imagination. Organizing the work, Diderot adapted Francis Bacon's "Classification of Knowledge" into a three-part system. He emphasized the importance of commerce, technology, and crafts, poking around shops to study the tools and techniques of Parisian laborers. The encyclopedia is a must-read for students interested in history, philosophy, and the arts. It is a treasure trove of knowledge that will inspire you to explore academic topics independently through reading, reflection, writing, and self-directed projects.

"War and Peace" may seem like an intimidating tome, but it is a thrilling examination of history populated with deep and realistic characters. This epic novel by Tolstoy explores the interconnected lives of aristocrats in Russia on the eve of war with France. While the characters and their psychologies are gripping, Tolstoy is not afraid to interrupt the narrative to pose insightful questions about history, culture, philosophy, psychology, and the human response to war. This panoramic scope makes "War and Peace" a unique and valuable work of literature. By reading this book, students can gain a deeper understanding of history and its impact on society, as well as develop their critical thinking skills. So, don't be intimidated by its length, "War and Peace" is a worthwhile read that can broaden your intellectual horizons.

Dante's "Divine Comedy" is a remarkable allegorical imagining of the soul's journey toward God. It's an epic journey that encompasses both the human and the divine, and it's more than just a religious allegory. It's also a witty, scathing commentary on Italian politics. Dante was a soldier and statesman from Florence, who was staunchly faithful to God but often critical of the Roman Catholic Church. He particularly disliked its rampant nepotism and practice of simony, the buying and selling of religious favours such as pardons from sin. Despite its bleak and sometimes violent imagery in "Inferno," the "Divine Comedy" is also a love story. It's a story of Dante's lifelong muse, Beatrice Portinari, who leads Dante through "Paradiso's" concentric spheres of Heaven until he is finally face-to-face with God. Learning about Dante's journey and his commentary on politics will expand your intellectual horizons and inspire you to think critically about the world around you.

Moral relativism is the idea that what is right in one culture may be wrong in another, and there is no way to judge between the two. This means that different people have different moral rules and social customs, and there is no absolute truth of the matter. While this non-judgmental relativism might seem attractive, it can be problematic. For instance, in Nazi Germany, it became socially acceptable to treat Jews, homosexuals, and Gypsies as less than human. A relativist would have to say that this was 'right' for Nazi Germany. Some people go even further and say that everything is relative, including truth. However, the problem with this sort of relativism is that the theory itself would have to be relative. Learning about moral relativism and its limitations can help you develop critical thinking skills and make informed decisions about moral issues.

Chess is more than just a game - it's a tool of military strategy, a metaphor for human affairs, and a benchmark of genius. With a history dating back over one-and-a-half millennia, chess has transcended cultures and continents, evolving into the form we know today. Chess theory was born in Europe, where it became part of courtly education and was used as an allegory for different social classes performing their proper roles. Chess has had a rich and varied history, from the Islamic conquest of Persia to the Cold War, and even today, chess software is capable of consistently defeating the best human players. Learning about the history and strategy of chess can help students develop their critical thinking skills and creativity, and provide insights into human culture and history.

Christopher Hitchens, one of the most incisive minds of our time, meets George Orwell in this thought-provoking essay, where he assesses the life, achievements, and myth of the great political writer. Hitchens examines Orwell's perspectives on fascism, empire, feminism, and Englishness, as well as his outlook on America. Whether thinking about empires or dictators, race or class, nationalism or popular culture, Orwell's moral outlook remains indispensable in a world that has undergone vast changes in the fifty years since his death. This book is a tightly woven and subtle argument that addresses not only why Orwell matters today but how he will continue to matter in a future, uncertain world. Recommended for history buffs, political science students, and anyone interested in the power of language and the role of the writer in society. This book offers a unique perspective on the life and work of George Orwell, one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. Christopher Hitchens' essay is a thought-provoking analysis of Orwell's moral outlook and his perspectives on fascism, empire, feminism, and Englishness, as well as his outlook on America. It is a must-read for those who want to understand the influence of Orwell's writing on our modern world and how his ideas continue to shape our understanding of politics, culture, and society.

Are you interested in exploring the revolutionary ideas that have shaped our society? Karl Marx, a philosopher and historian, is known for his critical thinking and analysis of the social and economic systems of his time. Through his writings, Marx sought to reform the ruling class and promote communism. By exploring Marx's work, you will gain insight into the political and economic theories that have had a profound impact on the modern world. Additionally, reading and reflecting on Marx's ideas will help you develop critical thinking and analytical skills that can benefit you academically and professionally. Why not take the first step towards discovering these ideas by delving into Marx's seminal work, The Communist Manifesto?

Colonial history is a complex and often painful subject, involving the histories and legacies of colonization, empire, and slavery. In recent years, the concept of colonial history revisionism has been in the spotlight, as scholars, activists, and communities have challenged traditional narratives and sought to center the experiences of those who have been marginalized or silenced. In this write-up, we will explore the key concepts and debates around colonial history revisionism, as well as the contributions of leading academics in the field. Colonial history revisionism involves questioning and re-examining traditional narratives of colonization, empire, and slavery. This can include challenging dominant perspectives that have centered white, European perspectives, and silencing or marginalizing the voices of colonized peoples and enslaved Africans. Revisionism also involves looking at the ways in which colonial legacies continue to shape our world today, from economic inequality to systemic racism. One of the key debates within colonial history revisionism is around the concept of "decolonization." This term refers to the process of undoing the effects of colonization and centering the voices and experiences of colonized peoples. However, there is debate around what decolonization looks like in practice, and whether it is possible within existing structures of power. There are many academics who have contributed to the field of colonial history revisionism. One of the most influential is Edward Said, who wrote extensively on the concept of Orientalism and the ways in which Western perspectives have shaped the study of the "Orient." Another important figure is Frantz Fanon, who wrote about the psychological effects of colonization on the colonized, and the need for a "decolonization of the mind." More recent scholars include Saidiya Hartman, who explores the experiences of enslaved Africans and their descendants, and Jemima Pierre, who looks at the connections between colonialism and the global economy. In conclusion, colonial history revisionism is a vital field of study that challenges traditional narratives and center the voices and experiences of those who have been marginalized or silenced. By exploring this area further, students can deepen their understanding of colonial history and its legacies, and contribute to ongoing efforts to decolonize our world.

In "The Republic," Plato takes us on a journey through a dialogue between Socrates and three individuals, exploring the idea of the perfect community and the ideal individual within it. Through their conversation, they delve into questions of reality, knowledge, and goodness, while also tackling the role of education and gender in society. With the use of allegory, Plato masterfully depicts a state governed by philosopher kings and bound by harmony. This classic text is a must-read for anyone interested in philosophy, politics, and society's role in shaping individuals. Recommended for anyone interested in philosophy, politics, or sociology, "The Republic" is a timeless classic that explores the idea of a perfect community and the ideal individual within it. With its thought-provoking discussions on the nature of reality, knowledge, and goodness, this book is sure to appeal to students of philosophy, while its exploration of education and gender roles in society makes it relevant to those studying sociology. Additionally, the book's insights into politics and the role of government are sure to appeal to anyone interested in political science. Overall, "The Republic" is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of society and the human experience.

The "Aeneid" by Virgil is an epic poem that aims to capture the unsettled nature of Roman politics in the second half of the 1st century B.C. The poem is written in dactylic hexameter and spans twelve separate sections, the first six of which mirror the structure of the "Odyssey" and the last six echo the "Iliad". By connecting the founding of Rome to the mythological stories that his audience knew so well, Virgil was able to link his hero Aeneas to the character of Augustus. Aeneas is on a quest to establish a new home for his people and faces all kinds of obstacles. Virgil presents Aeneas as a sort of model for Augustus, and that's probably one of the reasons the emperor was so eager to save the poem from destruction. The "Aeneid" has survived to ask questions about the nature of power and authority ever since. By exploring this epic poem, students can gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Ancient Rome and the literary techniques used to convey complex ideas.

Aristotle's Treatise on Rhetoric, written over 2,000 years ago, explores the art of persuasion through communication, which is still relevant today. The three types of persuasive speech Aristotle describes are: forensic rhetoric, which establishes facts and judgments about the past; epideictic rhetoric, which makes a proclamation about the present situation; and deliberative rhetoric, which focuses on the future. The latter is the most effective in achieving change and involves three persuasive appeals: ethos, logos, and pathos. Ethos is how you convince an audience of your credibility, logos is the use of logic and reason, and pathos appeals to emotions. Knowing how to use these rhetorical appeals is essential in persuading others, but also in recognizing when they are being used on you. Understanding and mastering the art of rhetoric can help you communicate more effectively and achieve your goals.

In a world of chaos and violence, how can we prevent ourselves from descending into anarchy? Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan explores this timeless question, arguing for a powerful sovereign to enforce security and the rule of law. Shocking his contemporaries, Hobbes' work of political philosophy opened up questions about statecraft and society that still influence governments worldwide. This fully revised edition includes a new introduction, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the nature of power and governance. Recommended for political science students, policymakers, and anyone interested in the nature of power and governance, Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan offers a thought-provoking analysis of the role of the state in preventing anarchy. Its insights into the nature of society and the need for a powerful sovereign to enforce security and the rule of law have influenced governments worldwide. This book also has relevance to those interested in philosophy, history, and law, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of statecraft.

Can political discourse survive the culture wars? Philosopher Agnes Callard explores how Socratic politics can depoliticize arguments and free our speech. Discover the dangers of self-politicization and the tragedy of those who lack the freedom to inquire. Learn how to distinguish between coercive and illuminating persuasion and why not bullying is harder than it appears. Join the conversation on how we can best live together in a politically charged climate.

In this video clip, we learn about the birthplace of democracy, ancient Athens, and how they practiced direct democracy through never-ending referendums. We also hear from Plato, one of the most famous thinkers in history, who believed that the best form of government is aristocracy, ruled by the best-educated individuals who make wise decisions for society. While his views were classist, Plato's key message is to make just, prudent, and wise decisions based on virtue, rather than letting passion guide our decisions. Learning about these academic concepts can benefit students intellectually by expanding their knowledge of history and philosophy, and practically by helping them develop critical thinking skills and the ability to make informed decisions. So, let's explore these ideas and strive to make wise decisions based on virtue, just like Plato's selfless aristocrats.

The social contract is a concept that has evolved over time and shaped the way that societies have functioned for centuries. This idea is based on the premise that individuals must give up some of their individual rights in exchange for the protection and security provided by a larger governing body. Throughout history, the social contract has been a topic of great debate and discussion. In the 17th century, philosophers such as Thomas Hobbes and John Locke wrote extensively on the social contract, with Hobbes believing that the state should have absolute power over its citizens, and Locke arguing that individuals have natural rights that the state must respect. In modern times, the social contract has been shaped by a number of factors, including globalization, technological advancements, and the rise of multicultural societies. Immanuel Kant, a German philosopher, made significant contributions to the field by arguing that the social contract should be based on universal principles of justice, such as the categorical imperative, which requires individuals to act in ways that can be universally applied. John Rawls, a 20th-century American philosopher, also made important contributions to the social contract. He argued that the social contract should be based on the principles of justice as fairness, which require individuals to treat each other fairly and impartially. Rawls believed that the social contract should be structured in such a way to work to the greatest benefit of the least advantaged members of society. There have been numerous contributions to the field of the social contract by leading academics such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Immanuel Kant, and John Rawls. Each of these thinkers has brought their own unique perspectives and ideas to the table, adding to the rich history of the social contract and shaping the way it is understood and applied today.

Canadian singer, Jully Black, made headlines when she sang her country's national anthem at an NBA all-star game and altered the lyrics from "our home and native land" to "our home on native land" in solidarity with indigenous communities. This small change has sparked a larger conversation about Canada's history of oppression and assimilation of indigenous people, and the need for reconciliation. While some have criticized the change, many have praised it as a model for all Canadians. This issue raises important questions about identity, power, and representation, and highlights the role of music and art in social and political activism.

Are you interested in learning about the impact of the American Revolution on the French Revolution? The Library of Congress has an article that explores the relationship between the two revolutions and how they were influenced by political theories. You'll also discover the complex roles of women, people of color, and Native Americans during this time. Don't miss out on this fascinating read!

Metaphors are all around us, shaping our beliefs, attitudes, and actions in ways we don't even realize. They make the world "sting and tingle," bringing color and meaning to everyday life. But not everyone is a fan. Philosopher Thomas Hobbes compared the use of metaphors to lying. However, many of us use metaphors to express anything abstract. They help us understand complex ideas like heartbreak and time. But metaphors also play a huge role in political framing and social issues. The words we choose affect how we perceive and deal with these issues, potentially affecting our laws, politics, and treatment of each other. So, knowledge of metaphors is power. By exploring and understanding metaphors, you can gain a deeper understanding of the world around you and potentially impact it positively.