Toward the Light of Liberty: The Struggles for Freedom and Rights That Made the Modern Western World by A. C. Grayling -Hardcover

A.C. Grayling argues that a defining feature of Western civilization over the past five centuries has been a series of liberation struggles, without which the rights and freedoms we now take for granted would not exist. These struggles began with the often violent fight for independent thought, free from the control of the Church, eventually paving the way for political freedom as monarchies were replaced by more representative governments. This shift facilitated significant advancements, including the abolition of slavery, women's suffrage, workers' rights, universal education, and more. Grayling deftly weaves together the stories of both well-known and lesser-known figures, from Martin Luther and John Locke to the French scholar Sebastien Castellio and the feminist activist Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Each of these struggles represents a remarkable chapter in human history, highlighting the sacrifices made by those who challenged authority. Grayling also points out that democratic governments, under certain pressures, have often restricted rights in the name of protecting freedom, emphasizing how fragile and valuable these rights are. *Toward the Light of Liberty* is especially relevant today, as we approach an election season where civil liberties will undoubtedly be a key issue.

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Walker Books; First Edition (October 2, 2007)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 288 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0802716369
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0802716361
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.45 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.32 x 1.29 x 9.63 inches
• Condition: Used-Very Good

Ex-library with library stamps and stickers, else in very good condition, pages are clean, the binding is sound, the cover is intact and wrapped in mylar protective sleeve.

 

History of Civilization & Culture, United States History,