First published 1949
In "Authority and the Individual," philosopher Bertrand Russell dissects the complex dance between authority and human freedom. From ancient Greece to modern welfare states, he explores how the structures of society - education, politics, economics - both empower and constrain us. Tracing the moral evolution of civilization, Russell reveals the hidden forces that mold our beliefs, behaviors, and progress. But at the heart of his inquiry lies a fundamental question: how can we preserve individual liberty while maintaining the order needed for a functioning social fabric? With his trademark clarity and incisive wit, Russell navigates this delicate balance, offering a blueprint for a society that nurtures both authority and autonomy.
Genres: philosophy, 20th-century, political-science, sociology, non-fiction, academic
Vibes: analytical, insightful, thought-provoking
Tropes: philosophical-inquiry, social-commentary
Period: Ancient Greece, Modern Welfare States
Paperback · Unwin Hyman