John Ralston Saul is a Canadian author known for his thought-provoking writings on the theme of the individual’s role within society. He has written a number of books covering topics such as politics, philosophy, and globalization, and is best known for his work on the importance of responsible citizenship and the role of the public intellectual.
John Ralston Saul Books in Order
- Voltaire’s Bastards: The Dictatorship of Reason in the West
- The Unconscious Civilization
- A Fair Country: Telling Truths About Canada
- The Collapse Of Globalism: And The Reinvention Of The World
- The Comeback
- The Doubter’s Companion: A Dictionary of Aggressive Common Sense
- On Equilibrium
- Louis-Hippolyte Lafontaine and Robert Baldwin
- Reflections of a Siamese twin: Canada at the end of the twentieth century
- Dark Diversions
Overview of John Ralston Saul Books in Order
Voltaire’s Bastards: The Dictatorship of Reason in the West
The content is being updated …
The Unconscious Civilization
In “The Unconscious Civilization,” John Ralston Saul presents a powerful critique of modern society and its reliance on rationalism and efficiency. He argues that despite our apparent progress, we have become increasingly disconnected from our true human nature and the values that sustain a healthy society. Saul challenges the prevalent idea that the pursuit of self-interest and material wealth is the key to happiness, and warns against the dangers of a society driven solely by technocratic and bureaucratic systems. He advocates for a return to a more balanced and humanistic approach to social organization, one that acknowledges the importance of intuition, emotions, and community in decision-making and societal development.
Saul discusses how these shifts have resulted in a “cult of experts” that claims to have all the answers, while often failing to acknowledge the importance of human experience and empathy. He argues that this approach has led to growing inequality, environmental degradation, and a loss of individual and collective agency. Instead, Saul calls for a return to a more holistic and human-centric approach to governance and community building, one that allows for diversity of thought and values human well-being over narrow economic interests.
By critiquing the prevailing ideas of progress and efficiency, “The Unconscious Civilization” challenges readers to reexamine their assumptions about what makes a healthy and fulfilling society. Saul advocates for a deeper engagement with our shared humanity and a rejection of the soulless and dehumanizing forces that dominate contemporary society.
A Fair Country: Telling Truths About Canada
“A Fair Country: Telling Truths About Canada” by John Ralston Saul explores the unique cultural and historical identity of Canada. Saul argues that Canada’s cultural and political traditions are deeply influenced by the country’s Aboriginal roots, French and British colonial heritage, and modern multicultural society. He suggests that Canada’s identity is rooted in a combination of Aboriginal, French, and English ideas, rather than just being an extension of European or American values.
Saul challenges the traditional view of Canada as a liberal, bilingual, and multicultural nation, and instead proposes that Canada has a distinct national identity characterized by a desire for balance, inclusivity, and a commitment to the public good. Drawing on history, political theory, and personal observations, Saul presents a provocative and thought-provoking analysis of what it means to be Canadian. He also calls for a more honest and inclusive interpretation of Canadian identity and values, arguing that this approach can help address contemporary challenges and shape a more just and equitable society.
Through his exploration of Canada’s cultural and historical roots, Saul offers a compelling vision of Canadian identity and values. He challenges readers to reconsider their understanding of Canada and suggests that the country’s unique identity can serve as a model for more inclusive and balanced approaches to governance and social progress. The book ultimately encourages readers to engage in a more critical and reflective exploration of their own national identity.
The Collapse Of Globalism: And The Reinvention Of The World
“The Collapse Of Globalism: And The Reinvention Of The World” by John Ralston Saul explores the challenges and failures of the globalist ideology and offers a new approach to understanding and reshaping the world. The book examines how the globalist worldview, with its emphasis on free markets and deregulation, has led to economic and social instability, inequality, and environmental degradation. Saul argues that the current globalist framework is unsustainable and in need of reinvention.
Saul suggests that the key to solving the problems created by globalism lies in embracing a new form of humanism that prioritizes the well-being of individuals and communities over the interests of multinational corporations and financial elites. He advocates for a return to localism and the reinvigoration of democratic institutions as a means of promoting inclusive, sustainable, and equitable development. “The Collapse Of Globalism” offers a thought-provoking critique of the current world order and presents a compelling vision for a more humane and just future.
Throughout the book, Saul draws on historical and contemporary examples to illustrate the shortcomings of globalism and the potential of alternative approaches. He calls for a fundamental reorientation of values and priorities in order to address the pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges facing the world today. “The Collapse Of Globalism” is a timely and provocative work that offers a bold reimagining of the global order and the potential for positive change.
The Comeback
The content is being updated …
The Doubter’s Companion: A Dictionary of Aggressive Common Sense
“The Doubter’s Companion: A Dictionary of Aggressive Common Sense” by John Ralston Saul is a collection of essays, reflections, and observations that challenge conventional wisdom and encourage critical thinking. The book covers a wide range of topics, including politics, economics, culture, and history, and offers a skeptical and thought-provoking perspective on each. Saul’s writing is characterized by its wit, clarity, and willingness to question accepted truths, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in developing their own independent and well-informed opinions.
Through his dictionary-style approach, Saul presents readers with entries that prompt them to reconsider their assumptions and question prevailing beliefs. He encourages readers to adopt an attitude of skepticism and intellectual curiosity, advocating for the importance of active engagement with the world around them. By highlighting the complexities and contradictions inherent in various ideas and systems, Saul challenges readers to think for themselves and to resist the temptation to passively accept the status quo.
“The Doubter’s Companion” ultimately aims to empower readers to become more discerning and critical thinkers. By providing alternative viewpoints and encouraging a healthy sense of doubt, Saul’s work promotes a more engaged and intellectually rigorous approach to understanding the world. This book serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking to cultivate a more nuanced, independent, and thoughtful perspective on the issues that confront us in the modern world.
On Equilibrium
The content is being updated …
Louis-Hippolyte Lafontaine and Robert Baldwin
The content is being updated …
Reflections of a Siamese twin: Canada at the end of the twentieth century
“Reflections of a Siamese Twin: Canada at the End of the Twentieth Century” by John Ralston Saul is a thought-provoking analysis of Canadian society at the close of the 20th century. Saul examines the political, cultural, and economic forces that have shaped Canada, offering a critical perspective on the country’s development and its relationship with the rest of the world. Through a series of essays, Saul delves into issues such as multiculturalism, indigenous rights, and the role of government in Canadian society, providing a comprehensive and insightful reflection on the state of the nation.
Saul’s book challenges conventional wisdom and offers a fresh perspective on Canadian identity and governance. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of history, philosophy, and politics, he offers a compelling critique of the prevailing narratives about Canada and the factors that have shaped its development. With his characteristic wit and incisive analysis, Saul provides readers with a nuanced understanding of the complexities of Canadian society and its place on the global stage.
“Reflections of a Siamese Twin” is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding Canada’s past, present, and future. Saul’s engaging and thought-provoking writing style makes this book an accessible and engaging read for a wide audience, from scholars and students to general readers interested in Canadian history and politics.
The content is being updated …
Dark Diversions
The content is being updated …
Who is John Ralston Saul
John Ralston Saul, a Canadian author and President of International PEN, is well-known for his thought-provoking commentaries on topics such as individualism, citizenship, and the public good. His essays also critically examine the failures of technocrat-led societies, the distinction between leadership and managerialism, military strategy, freedom of speech and culture, as well as contemporary economic arguments.
In conclusion, John Ralston Saul’s books offer a thought-provoking exploration of ideology, power, and the role of the individual in society. Through his extensive body of work, Saul challenges commonly held beliefs and offers a fresh perspective on the political and social landscape. His writing encourages readers to critically examine the systems and structures that shape our lives, and serves as a reminder of the importance of independent thought and action in navigating a complex and ever-changing world.
FAQs about author John Ralston Saul
The content is being updated …
