Tools for Conviviality

By Ivan Illich,

Book cover of Tools for Conviviality

Book description

Ivan Illich argues for individual personal control over life, the tools and energy we use. A work of seminal importance.

The conviviality for which noted social philosopher Ivan Illich is arguing is one in which the individual’s personal energies are under direct personal control and in which the use of…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Tools for Conviviality as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

This little book from 1973 made me realize I wrongly believed that all technological advancement was progress. Why should it be? With every invention that promises to make life easier, ask this question, says Illich: "Will this make me a more independent, capable human being? Or will human qualities be made obsolete?"

In the Middle Ages, people built cathedrals without burning fuel. We have since lost this ability. Is that progress? Ivan Illich introduces the concept of radical monopolies: industrial processes that make non-industrial activities impossible. "Cars can [...] monopolize traffic [...] practically ruling out locomotion on foot or by…

Want books like Tools for Conviviality?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Tools for Conviviality.

Browse books like Tools for Conviviality

Book cover of Entangled Life: How Fungi Make Our Worlds, Change Our Minds & Shape Our Futures
Book cover of Thinking in Systems
Book cover of Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,188

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in the Middle Ages, philosophy, and presidential biography?

The Middle Ages 431 books
Philosophy 1,771 books