Short History of Western Ideology: A Critical Account

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

We are undoubtedly residing in a 'postideological era,' where the influence of ideology seems to have diminished significantly. However, upon delving into the realm of TV news, we encounter a curious phenomenon: political leaders, geopolitical experts, and even sober event presenters use terms such as 'advanced societies,' 'humanitarian interventions,' and 'barbaric' to describe various events and situations. This raises the question: what does this mean? In his comprehensive book, Rolf Petri takes us on a journey to explore the ideological representations woven into our everyday political language. Through a historical narrative that is accessible to all, Petri unveils the central elements of Western ideology, tracing its evolution from the secularization of Europe and the Enlightenment project of civilization to the contemporary preoccupation with ecological catastrophes or the notion of the end of history.

A Short History of Western Ideology delves into a wide range of issues that are crucial for understanding the modern world. These include religion, colonialism, race and gender, which shape our perceptions and interpretations of the world. By raising awareness of the ideological nature of the Western worldview, its limitations, and its flaws, this book serves as a warning against the dangers of adopting a self-righteous mindset. It is a stimulating and essential reading for history and politics students who seek to comprehend the ideology of the Western world.

In conclusion, while it may be argued that we are living in a 'postideological era,' the prevalence of ideological terms in our political discourse indicates that ideology continues to play a significant role in shaping our worldviews and understanding of events. Rolf Petri's book, A Short History of Western Ideology, provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the ideological landscape by offering a comprehensive exploration of the central elements of Western ideology and their historical development. It serves as a warning against the dangers of a self-righteous mindset and encourages us to be more critical of the narratives we consume.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350026100