Ecstasy and Holiness: Counter Culture and the Open Society

The counter culture is not the result of alienation, but of opportunity, resulting from a new generational consciousness and openness in industrial societies since the 1950s.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book, first published in 1974, argues that the counter culture is not the outcome of alienation, but of opportunity, being the result of a new generational consciousness, an openness that has characterized industrial societies of the West since the 1950s. Its roots lie in economic expansion and population movement and growth, the same factors that are cited in the decline of religiousness.

The counterculture emerged as a response to the dominant societal norms and values of the time. Young people, particularly those in urban areas, felt disillusioned and dissatisfied with the status quo. They sought a way to escape the constraints of traditional society and explore new ideas and experiences.

The counterculture was characterized by a rejection of traditional authority figures, such as parents, teachers, and the government. Instead, young people sought to create their own rules and values, based on their own experiences and perspectives. This led to a proliferation of new ideas and movements, such as the hippie movement, the feminist movement, and the civil rights movement.

One of the key themes of the counterculture was the importance of personal freedom and individual expression. Young people believed that they should be able to live their lives according to their own beliefs and values, without being constrained by societal norms and expectations. This led to a rejection of traditional gender roles, sexual norms, and social hierarchies.

Another important theme of the counterculture was the importance of social change and political activism. Young people believed that they could create a better world by working together to address social and economic inequality and promote social justice. This led to a wave of political activism, including protests, marches, and rallies.

Despite its many positive aspects, the counterculture also had its negative consequences. Many young people who participated in the counterculture became disillusioned and lost touch with mainstream society. They also faced opposition and criticism from those who believed that the counterculture was destructive and harmful to society.

In conclusion, the counterculture was a response to the dominant societal norms and values of the time. It was characterized by a rejection of traditional authority figures, a focus on personal freedom and individual expression, and a commitment to social change and political activism. While the counterculture had many positive aspects, it also had its negative consequences.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367025021