Fear: An Alternative History of the World

Fear has been a driving force in world history, as a tool of power and a catalyst for social change. Robert Peckham's Fear: An Alternative History of the World explores how fear has impacted society, from the Black Death to the AIDS pandemic. It demonstrates how fear can challenge and cement authority, and how it has shaped our identity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2023
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

It is often asserted that we live in a more fearful society than ever before, following significant events such as the 9/11 attacks, the 2008 financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it is important to recognize that fear has played a central role in shaping world history, serving as both a tool of power and a catalyst for social change. In his book "Fear: An Alternative History of the World," Robert Peckham explores the profound impact of fear throughout different periods and cultures.

Beginning with the Black Death in the fourteenth century, Peckham traces a shadow history of fear, highlighting its enduring presence throughout different eras. He takes readers on a journey through the French Revolution, the nineteenth-century social movements, modern market crashes, Cold War paranoia, and the AIDS pandemic, all while examining the unique fears prevalent in the twenty-first century digital culture.

Peckham delves into the multifaceted meanings of fear and its historical significance. He argues that fear can challenge authority and lead to significant societal transformations. Some crises, such as the Black Death, have destroyed societies, while others, such as the French Revolution, have been the making of them. Through the stories of individuals and pivotal moments that shaped history, Peckham demonstrates how fear and panic have shaped our identities and influenced our actions.

One of the key themes of "Fear: An Alternative History of the World" is the role of fear in shaping political ideologies and movements. Peckham explores how fear has been used to justify authoritarianism, oppression, and war. He also examines how fear has motivated social movements for change, such as the civil rights movement and the feminist movement.

Peckham also highlights the psychological and physiological effects of fear. He explores how fear can impair decision-making, alter our perception of reality, and even lead to physical health problems. By understanding the mechanisms of fear, Peckham suggests that we can develop strategies to manage and overcome fear, both individually and collectively.

In conclusion, "Fear: An Alternative History of the World" is a thought-provoking and insightful book that offers a fresh perspective on the role of fear in world history. By examining the historical and cultural contexts in which fear has operated, Peckham provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of power, social change, and human behavior. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the forces that have shaped our world and the challenges we face in the present and future.

Weight: 690g
Dimension: 163 x 241 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788167239
Edition number: Main