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Enlightenment: Britain and the creation of the modern world Hardcover – January 1, 2000
- Print length752 pages
- LanguageEnglish
- PublisherAllen Lane
- Publication dateJanuary 1, 2000
- Dimensions6.5 x 1.77 x 9.53 inches
- ISBN-100713991526
- ISBN-13978-0713991529
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Product details
- Publisher : Allen Lane (January 1, 2000)
- Language : English
- Hardcover : 752 pages
- ISBN-10 : 0713991526
- ISBN-13 : 978-0713991529
- Item Weight : 2.83 pounds
- Dimensions : 6.5 x 1.77 x 9.53 inches
- Best Sellers Rank: #1,660,171 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
- #2,861 in England History
- #45,493 in World History (Books)
- Customer Reviews:
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- Reviewed in the United States on September 19, 2013Porter presents a clear and reasonably concise history of the contribution to the European enlightenment from the British Isles with, a depth of knowledge and flowing prose which is never dull.
The contributions of the main proponents, Scots, David Hume and Adam Smith are given the appropriate coverage with their philosophies and resultant universal impact explained in an adroit manner.
The philosophies of these two men had a major impact on the American founding fathers' writing of their constitution and are still as relevant today as they were over 200 years ago.
The more perceptive amongst us may perhaps believe that the time has come for a second enlightenment wherein those who today would try to return us to the fear of non-existent supernatural entities or a belief in the divine rights of kings or dictators are ridiculed and dismissed.
- Reviewed in the United States on July 8, 2013Extremely boring book. I'm only reading it for a class I'm taking. I suppose it could be worse though. Definitely not a for fun read, also uses some language in English (UK) spelling versus American English, which can be a little confusing.
Top reviews from other countries
- RemoveReviewed in the United Kingdom on October 14, 2017
5.0 out of 5 stars Fascinating but hard going in places
Perhaps if I was more familiar with the history of the period - Civil War to end of 18th century- I'd have coped better. The book is erudite and Porter is clearly a master of the subject but I'd have liked more context though chapter 2 provides useful background.
Many of the explanations are compressed and cross reference are rather vague. There are many references to -isms and schools of thought and Christianity but they are inadequately defined, if at all.
Despite these severe reservations, the subject matter is fascinating and the many references in the text to other books provides a route to better understanding. The book is astonishing in its erudition, vocabulary and intellectual brilliance. Porte is a master of his subject.
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R. ClarkReviewed in Germany on October 20, 2017
5.0 out of 5 stars An Erudite and fascinating read.
Erudite and full of fascinating observations. An excellent read. Porter manages to convey a great deal of insight into a long and complex chain of philosophical and political insights without sacrificing readability.
- Harry DonaghyReviewed in the United Kingdom on November 12, 2014
5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars
Very pleased with this addition to my home library!
Thank you seller.
Harry
- John HopkinsReviewed in the United Kingdom on June 14, 2014
4.0 out of 5 stars Enlightened
An interesting book which illustrates well that our much-vaunted present-day Christian heritage is actually in my new estimation, the oppressive Christianity of up to about 1750 then heavily modified by the Enlightenment (which flourished particularly in Scotland) to become Post-Christian (all praise to Rowan Williams).
Porter's vocabulary is/was clearly about four times wider than my own and I struggled (pleasurably) with his text in nearly every sentence.
Overall, using stamina, a very enjoyable and enlightening read.
- A.NicklinReviewed in the United Kingdom on July 16, 2014
5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars
replacement for lost copy.