Why Cicero Matters

Cicero's influence on humanitarianism, the Enlightenment, and the Founding Fathers of America is immense, yet we often overlook his contributions in favor of Julius Caesar. This book offers Cicero as an antidote to the myth of the strong man of history, demonstrating how he transformed politics into a higher, intellectual form of art. He believed in education, culture, and the power of philosophy to instill morality, and argued that culture should be the foundation of any modern democracy. In an age of anti-intellectualism, this book provides an introduction to an ancient thinker who offers valuable insights into the building blocks of a healthy society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Why Cicero Matters delves into the profound influence of the Roman philosopher and statesman Marcus Tullius Cicero on various aspects of human history. Despite his immense impact on humanitarianism, the Enlightenment, and the Founding Fathers of America, his legacy often overshadowed that of Julius Caesar. This book seeks to rectify this imbalance by presenting Cicero as an antidote to the myth of the strong man of history. By examining his writings, particularly On Duties, On Friendship, and On Old Age, we witness how Cicero transformed politics into a higher, intellectual form of art. He believed in the power of education, culture, and philosophy to instill morality and shape the character of individuals and societies. Cicero offers reassuring words on the indispensable work of philosophers and why the common good necessitates their pursuit. In a time when anti-intellectualism thrives, Why Cicero Matters introduces us to an ancient thinker who argued that culture should be the foundation of any modern democracy. It provides a comprehensive exploration of Cicero's ideas and their relevance to contemporary politics and political culture.

Weight: 252g
Dimension: 137 x 216 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350376687