Uncivilised: Ten Lies that Made the West

Uncivilised is a book that challenges our assumptions about civilisation and society, suggesting that many of the big ideas we live by are lies. It questions who benefits from the values at the core of our society and asks readers to reconsider what they thought they knew about civilisation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

A captivating and thought-provoking book that challenges our preconceived notions about civilization and society, Angela Saini's Superior offers a witty and accessible exploration of the flaws in Western civilization as many perceive it. In this essential work for our challenging times, Saini delves into the rich history and influences beyond the Western world, reminding us of the diverse tapestry that has shaped our world. Written with passion and humor, Saini skillfully opens our eyes to the historical narratives that have molded our global landscape.

Roma Agrawal, the author of Built and Nuts and Bolts, praises Superior as a vital piece of work that sheds light on the history and influences outside the Western sphere. Agrawal commends Saini's writing for its passionate and humorous approach, which effectively engages readers and broadens their understanding of the world.

While some aspects of Western civilization are widely accepted as truths, such as the power of knowledge, the value of time, and the impartiality of justice, many of the fundamental ideas that underpin our society are merely ideas. These notions, rooted in Greek philosophy and further developed during the Enlightenment, have become the guiding principles we live by today, but they have not been critically examined in a long time.

In Uncivilized, Angela Saini takes a bold step by questioning these ideas and challenging the assumptions that have shaped our lives. She draws inspiration from Greek philosophy and the Enlightenment, but instead of accepting these ideas as gospel, she examines them critically and exposes their flaws. Saini questions the notion that humanity is inherently good, the idea that nations and laws protect individuals, the concept of unbiased science, and the definition of art. She also delves into the question of whether the West is truly as civilized as it claims to be, raising important questions about the benefits and drawbacks of our society's values.

Through her engaging and accessible writing, Saini encourages readers to reconsider what they thought they knew about civilization. She presents a compelling argument that our society is built on a series of lies, and by recognizing these lies, we can begin to dismantle the systems that perpetuate inequality and injustice. Uncivilized offers a fresh perspective on the history and influences that have shaped our world, and it challenges readers to think critically and engage with the world around them in a more informed and meaningful way.

In conclusion, Angela Saini's Uncivilized is a must-read for anyone who wants to challenge their preconceived notions about civilization and society. With her witty and accessible writing, Saini offers a thought-provoking exploration of the flaws in Western civilization and encourages readers to reconsider the values that have shaped their lives. By recognizing the lies that underpin our society, we can work towards a more just and equitable world.

Weight: 418g
Dimension: 225 x 144 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399704359