The History of Evil

This set of six volumes explores the history of evil from 2000 BCE to the present day, with original essays by six distinguished scholars. It is intended to be an accessible, international contribution to the philosophical study of evil in multiple cultures and times.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 1996 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive six-volume set delves into the intricate tapestry of evil's historical trajectory, spanning from ancient times to the present day. Collaborating with esteemed volume editors and a collective of distinguished scholars, this esteemed collection aims to make profound philosophical insights into the multifaceted phenomenon of evil accessible to a global audience.

Embarking on a captivating journey through time, the volumes meticulously examine the origins, manifestations, and enduring impact of evil across diverse cultures and epochs. Each chapter offers a rich tapestry of original essays, meticulously crafted by renowned experts in their respective fields. These essays explore the philosophical, theological, psychological, and sociological dimensions of evil, shedding light on its complex nature and its profound implications for human existence.

The first volume, titled "The Ancient Roots of Evil," delves into the earliest manifestations of evil in human societies. It explores the concept of evil in ancient mythologies, religions, and philosophical traditions, shedding light on the ways in which early civilizations attempted to understand and confront this universal phenomenon. From the moral codes of ancient Greece and Rome to the ethical frameworks of ancient India and China, the authors examine the evolution of ideas about evil and its role in shaping human behavior.

The second volume, titled "The Middle Ages and the Renaissance," takes us into the turbulent and complex world of medieval and Renaissance Europe. During this period, the concept of evil took on new dimensions as it was intertwined with religious beliefs, political power struggles, and the pursuit of knowledge. The authors explore the role of the church, the state, and individual morality in combating evil, as well as the emergence of new philosophical frameworks that sought to understand and confront the darkness within human nature.

The third volume, titled "The Modern Era: From Enlightenment to Globalization," examines the rise of modernity and its impact on the understanding of evil. The authors explore the emergence of secularism, rationalism, and scientific progress as dominant ideologies, which challenged traditional religious and moral frameworks. They also examine the rise of totalitarianism, genocide, and other forms of extreme violence that have plagued humanity throughout history.

The fourth volume, titled "The Contemporary World: Challenges and Responses," focuses on the challenges posed by evil in the contemporary world. The authors explore the rise of terrorism, cybercrime, and other forms of modern-day violence, as well as the responses of governments, international organizations, and individuals to these threats. They also examine the ethical dilemmas surrounding the use of force, surveillance, and other counterterrorism measures, and the potential unintended consequences of these actions.

The fifth volume, titled "The Philosophical Study of Evil: Approaches and Methods," delves into the various philosophical approaches to the study of evil. The authors explore the rationalist, empiricist, and phenomenological traditions, as well as the contributions of feminist, postcolonial, and critical theory perspectives. They discuss the challenges and limitations of these approaches, as well as the potential for new and innovative ways of understanding and confronting evil.

The sixth and final volume, titled "The Future of Evil: Prospects and Challenges," explores the future prospects and challenges of the study of evil. The authors speculate on the potential trends and developments in the study of evil, as well as the ethical and social implications of these trends. They also examine the role of education, awareness, and empathy in promoting a more just and peaceful world, and the challenges of achieving this goal in the face of ongoing global conflicts and social injustices.

In conclusion, this comprehensive six-volume set offers a profound and multi-faceted exploration of the history, manifestations, and philosophical study of evil. By collaborating with a diverse range of scholars and experts, the collection provides a valuable contribution to the field of evil studies. It offers insights into the complex nature of evil, its historical roots, and its enduring impact on human societies. Whether you are a scholar, researcher, or simply interested in exploring the darker aspects of human nature, this set is an essential resource for your intellectual journey.

Weight: 3715g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032095189