Modern European Intellectual History: Individuals, Groups, and Technological Change, 1800-2000

This introduction to modern European intellectual history explores how ideas have evolved in Europe from the 19th century to the present, focusing on the impact of technology on intellectual life. It discusses competing theories and intellectual systems, such as individualism versus collectivism, and examines how thought has developed in response to technological challenges. The book is accessible, jargon-free, and highly illustrated, with an online Instructor's Guide.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This comprehensive non-technical introduction to modern European intellectual history spans the evolution of ideas in Europe from the turn of the 19th century to the present day. With a focus on the significant technological and scientific advancements of the past two centuries, David Galaty explores how intellectual life has been shaped by the challenges and opportunities presented by this technologically-driven world. From theories of beauty to metaphysical studies, the modern world has sparked a multitude of competing theories and intellectual systems, often centered around contrasting notions of individual power versus collectivist ideals such as community, nation, tradition, and transcendent experience.

In an accessible and jargon-free style, Modern European Intellectual History unravels these debates and provides a historical analysis of how thought has evolved in Europe since the French Revolution. The book covers a wide range of topics, including:

The Kantian Revolution: Examining the philosophical ideas of Immanuel Kant and their impact on European thought.

Feminism and the Suffrage Movement: Tracing the rise of feminist movements and their contributions to intellectual discourse.

Socialism and Marxism: Analyzing the development of socialist and Marxist ideologies and their influence on society.

Nationalism: Exploring the emergence and evolution of nationalism as a political and cultural force.

Structuralism: Examining the theoretical framework developed by French philosopher Claude Lévi-Strauss and its impact on intellectual discourse.

Quantum theory: Discussing the revolutionary scientific theories of Albert Einstein and their implications for understanding the nature of reality.

Developments in the Arts: Analyzing the artistic movements and trends that have shaped European culture throughout history.

Postmodernism: Exploring the philosophical and cultural movements that emerged in the late 20th century, including deconstructionism and postmodernism.

Big Data and the Cyber Century: Examining the impact of digital technology and data analysis on society and intellectual life.

Modern European Intellectual History is extensively illustrated with 80 images and 10 tables, further supported by an online Instructor's Guide. This is the most essential student resource on modern European intellectual history available today, providing a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the field.

Weight: 662g
Dimension: 161 x 234 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350105393