Whatever Happened to Tradition?: History, Belonging and the Future of the West

The West is lost and hurtling from crisis to crisis, lacking a sense of tradition. This book argues that we can only face the future with hope if we have a proper sense of tradition, which is anti-tradition in the modern West. Tradition can be both beautiful and useful, from the deserts of Australia to the court of nineteenth-century Japan. It can nurture the individual from birth to death, plug them into the wider community, and create a bond between generations. It can also be rebuilt, but the process is fraught with danger. The ultimate prize is self-knowledge and freedom.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 29 September 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The West is in a state of disarray, grappling with a series of crises that seem to define our times: Brexit, Trump, and the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic. We are plagued by a sense of uncertainty and fear, wondering if our best days are behind us. In this profound and thought-provoking book, Tim Stanley makes a compelling case that we can only navigate the future with hope if we embrace a deeper understanding of tradition. Stanley argues that the Western tradition is inherently anti-tradition, characterized by a tendency to discard old ways and knowledge, leaving us unsure of how to act and who we truly are.

However, he also shows that tradition can be both beautiful and useful, from the arid landscapes of Australia to the opulent courts of nineteenth-century Japan. Stanley explores controversial concepts such as authority, nostalgia, rejection of the self, and the pursuit of spiritual transcendence, demonstrating how they can nurture individuals and bind generations together. He illustrates how seemingly eccentric principles can be universal, applying to people from all walks of life.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Stanley's book is his assertion that tradition can be rebuilt and revitalized. He argues that it has been done before, and that the process is fraught with danger, but the ultimate prize is self-knowledge and freedom. By rediscovering our roots, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.

Stanley's book is a call to action, urging us to embrace tradition and reject the superficiality of modern life. He challenges us to think critically about the values and beliefs that shape our society and to seek out ways to reconnect with our past. He encourages us to be open to new ideas and to be willing to adapt tradition to meet the needs of the present.

In conclusion, Tim Stanley's book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the challenges facing the West and the potential for a brighter future. It is a thought-provoking and inspiring exploration of the power of tradition and the importance of embracing our past to shape our present and future.

Weight: 192g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399404877