A sweeping journey through the story of human thought

From the first sparks of civilization to the complex realities of the twenty-first century, A History of Knowledge charts the grand adventure of ideas that have shaped our world. In this single, accessible volume, Charles Van Doren gathers the essence of humanity’s greatest intellectual achievements—what we have imagined, discovered, invented, and perfected across the centuries.

Far more than a catalogue of theories and discoveries, this book situates knowledge within the fabric of history itself. Van Doren shows how social conditions, political upheavals, and the vision of extraordinary men and women brought ideas to life and changed the course of civilizations. Philosophy, science, art, religion, politics, and culture are woven together into a living narrative that reveals not just what we know, but how we came to know it.

Massive in scope yet remarkably readable, A History of Knowledge offers readers both a panoramic overview and intimate portraits of pivotal moments in the human story. It is a compendium of the milestones of the mind—designed for the curious reader, the lifelong learner, and anyone who seeks to understand the path by which knowledge has led us to where we stand today.

Engaging, erudite, and inspiring, this book is both a reference and a guide: an invitation to join the ongoing human quest for wisdom and meaning.

 

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Ballantine Books
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ March 17, 1992
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Format: Paperback
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 448 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0345373162
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0345373168
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 10.4 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.1 x 0.95 x 9.25 inches
• Condition: Used Very Good

 

History Encyclopedias, Historical Study Reference, History of Civilization & Culture