Boxing Day Sale is live! Up to 20% off 2000+ Books

Towards the Light

The Story of the Struggles for Liberty and Rights That Made the Modern West
3.95 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 178 ratings, 28 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
In Towards the Light by Professor A. C. Grayling, the book explores significant historical movements and ideas that have fundamentally shaped modern society. It delves into the evolution of moral and political progress, examining how enlightenment ideals have influenced contemporary thinking. With a focus on key philosophers and events, Grayling offers a compelling examination of humanity's ongoing journey towards greater understanding and truth.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$2899
AVAILABLE WITH SUPPLIER Ships from our Auckland warehouse within 3-4 weeks

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're intrigued by how philosophical ideas have shaped human progress and the role of reason, freedom, and democracy in society. This thought-provoking exploration offers insights into the historical movements that have advanced light and understanding in humanity's journey.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

Towards the Light

Presents the stories of Martin Luther, Mary Wollstonecraft and Rosa Parks, whose sacrifices make us value these precious rights, especially in an age when governments under pressure find it necessary to restrict rights in the name of freedom.

Towards the Light is not only a revealing history book, but an examination of Western values that will enlighten, provoke and fascinate. Questions about equal rights, freedom of thought and transparent government are as relevant now as ever and are constantly in the news. By the well-known and bestselling author of Among the Dead Cities and The Meaning of Things

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The often-violent conflicts of the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries were sparked by the pursuit of freedom of thought. In time, this drive led to bitter fighting, including the English Civil War. Then came revolutions in America and France that swept away monarchies for more representative forms of government, making possible the abolition of slavery, the enfranchisement of women, and the idea of universal human rights and freedoms.

Each of these struggles was a memorable human drama, and Grayling interweaves the stories of these heroes, including Martin Luther, Mary Wollstonecraft, and Rosa Parks, whose sacrifices make us value these precious rights, especially in an age when governments under pressure find it necessary to restrict rights in the name of freedom.

Towards the Light is a compelling narrative exploring the critical moments and figures that have championed our most cherished liberties.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Towards the Light by Professor A. C. Grayling presents a vigorous defence of freedom and Enlightenment ideals, drawing comparisons to the writings of figures like Tom Paine and William Godwin. The book is praised for its even-handed tone and compelling exploration of the human cost involved in the historical struggle for liberty. Grayling's work spans a wide historical and geographical canvas, offering fascinating stories and insights into the development of human rights, while highlighting the enduring threats to our freedoms.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780747592990

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 01 September 2008

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 22.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 0g

Pages: 352

About the Author

A.C. Grayling is Professor of Philosophy at Birkbeck College, University of London, and a multi-talented author. He believes that philosophy should take an active, useful role in society. He has been a regular contributor to The Times, Financial Times, Observer, Independent on Sunday, Economist, Literary Review, New Statesman and Prospect, and is a frequent and popular contributor to radio and television programmes, including Newsnight, Today, In Our Time, Start the Week and CNN news. He is a Fellow of the World Economic Forum at Davos, and advises on many committees ranging from Drug Testing at Work to human rights groups.

Also by Professor A. C. Grayling

View all

More from Philosophy & Psychology

View all

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 80,000 books and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.