{"product_id":"great-books-everyones-inheritance-9781475872972","title":"Great Books: Everyone's Inheritance","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eJohn Erskine started a General Honors program 100 years ago, which was the precursor of the Great Books programs popularized by Mortimer Adler. This book explores the benefits of reading \"Great Books\" and provides a glimpse into what a series of Great Books classes has looked like over the past decades. \u003c\/blockquote\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFormat\u003c\/strong\u003e: Hardback\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLength\u003c\/strong\u003e: 214 pages\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublication date\u003c\/strong\u003e: 24 December 2023\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher\u003c\/strong\u003e: Rowman \u0026amp; Littlefield\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOver 100 years ago, Columbias John Erskine initiated a groundbreaking General Honors program that laid the foundation for the renowned Great Books programs that gained widespread popularity under the guidance of his student, Mortimer Adler. The term \"Great Books\" has sparked considerable debate, particularly due to the prevalence of relatively short lists that predominantly showcase works by \"dead white men.\" Nevertheless, it is remarkable that various groups across America have embraced and made these timeless ideas their own. This captivating book delves into the numerous benefits of engaging with \"Great Books,\" offering a unique perspective by documenting the structure and content of a series of Great Books classes over the past decades.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe General Honors program initiated by John Erskine at Columbia University marked a significant milestone in the history of education. It was a pioneering initiative that aimed to provide students with a comprehensive and intellectually challenging curriculum that encompassed the greatest works of literature, philosophy, and science from across the ages. This program was the precursor to the Great Books programs that became renowned for their intellectual rigor and their focus on the exploration of timeless ideas.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMortimer Adler, a prominent student of John Erskine, played a crucial role in popularizing the Great Books programs. He recognized the value of these works and their ability to inspire and educate individuals. Adler's vision was to make these profound insights accessible to a wider audience, and he worked tirelessly to promote the Great Books concept.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOne of the key criticisms of the Great Books programs is the perceived exclusivity of their content. Many argue that the lists of \"great books\" often feature predominantly works by \"dead white men,\" which can perpetuate biases and overlook the contributions of diverse writers and thinkers. However, it is important to note that the concept of \"great books\" has evolved over time, and many groups and individuals have taken it upon themselves to expand and diversify the canon.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDespite the controversies surrounding the Great Books, there are numerous benefits to engaging with these timeless works. Reading \"great books\" can enhance one's intellectual capacity, broaden one's perspective, and deepen one's understanding of the world. These works are often rich in symbolism, metaphor, and profound insights that can challenge and inspire readers.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFurthermore, the Great Books programs provide a structured and disciplined approach to learning. They encourage students to read and analyze works of literature carefully, to engage in critical thinking, and to develop their writing and speaking skills. By studying these works, students can develop a lifelong love of learning and a sense of intellectual curiosity that can serve them well in all aspects of their lives.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOver the past decades, the Great Books programs have undergone significant changes and adaptations. They have been implemented in various educational institutions, including universities, colleges, and high schools. The curriculum and structure of these programs vary depending on the institution and the instructor, but they generally follow a similar approach.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Great Books programs typically involve a series of lectures and discussions led by experts in the field. These lectures provide an overview of the work, its historical context, and its philosophical and literary significance. Students then engage in in-depth discussions and debates about the work, exploring its themes, characters, and ideas.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn addition to lectures and discussions, the Great Books programs often include readings from the selected works. Students are encouraged to read the books carefully, taking notes and annotating them as they go. This practice helps students to develop a deeper understanding of the text and to identify key themes and ideas.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFurthermore, the Great Books programs often incorporate other learning materials, such as films, documentaries, and visual aids, to enhance the students' understanding of the works. These materials can provide a different perspective on the text and can help students to connect with the ideas in a more visual and engaging way.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOne of the unique features of the Great Books programs is the emphasis on personal growth and self-discovery. The programs encourage students to reflect on their own experiences and values, to engage in introspection, and to develop their own ideas and perspectives. By studying these works, students can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn conclusion, the Great Books programs have a rich history and a profound impact on the intellectual and cultural landscape of America. They provide a structured and disciplined approach to learning that encourages students to engage with the greatest works of literature, philosophy, and science from across the ages. While the term \"great books\" has sparked controversy, it is important to recognize that the concept has evolved and that many groups and individuals have taken it upon themselves to expand and diversify the canon. By studying these works, students can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world, develop a lifelong love of learning, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue of intellectual inquiry.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e: 476g\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimension\u003c\/strong\u003e: 158 x 236 x 22 (mm)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13\u003c\/strong\u003e: 9781475872972\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Michael Gose","offers":[{"title":"Hardback","offer_id":44945514266874,"sku":"9781475872972","price":66.94,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0522\/4297\/2845\/products\/noImage_1_01b361d0-1d50-479e-9db4-49865c4f6087.jpg?v=1704017597","url":"https:\/\/shulphink.com\/products\/great-books-everyones-inheritance-9781475872972","provider":"Shulph Ink","version":"1.0","type":"link"}