History and the Idea of Progress

by Jerry Weinberger

Book Overview

No Synopsis Available.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0801481821
• ISBN13: 9780801481826
• Release Date: June 1995
• Publisher: Cornell University Press
• Length: 280 Pages
• Weight: 0.94 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.1" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Interesting Critique

When Francis Fukuyama published his essay on the end of history, there was a good deal of controversey about the ideals of liberal democracy and whether or not it was truly the end of human development. This collection of essays summarizes the critiques that were made about his claim. As a high school history teacher, it is my firm belief that this book should be a must read for any student of history beyond the high school level. This collection of essays has established a basis for discussing history, specifically its purpose, which then leads to the purpose of studying history. While we have all heard and most accept the argument that studying history is a part of being a good citizen of the world, these essays show us that history is more than just being a good citizen of the world, it is more than understanding how we got to a specific point, it is also showing us where we are going and how we are going to get there.Some of the essays can seem esoteric at first, but as you continue to read them, it becomes apparent that the essay is connnected to the general theme of the book. There are some connections that take some thought to identify and readily accept, but after I reread those specific essays, I see the connection.The editors did an excellent job of providing a comprehensive set of essays to make us question what exactly the end of history really is.