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In Search of Civilization Remaking a Tarnished Idea

Paperback (24 Jun 2010)

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Publisher's Synopsis

What is civilization?
Why do we need it?
And what can civilization offer us in an age of irony?

The idea of civilization is a complex one, tangled up for years in ideas of colonialism and politics. John Armstrong explores the nature and aims of civilization in this elegant and witty book, examining how civilizing forces from the Greeks to the Renaissance have shaped and coloured our ideas of what a Good existence means. Only by bringing conversations about civilization back into our everyday lives, Armstrong reveals, can we rediscover our chance for wisdom and happiness.

About the Publisher

Penguin Books

The first ten paperback Penguin books appeared in 1935 costing 6d each (the price of a packet of cigarettes). Since then the Penguin list has developed enormously, but still aims to bring the best writing to the widest possible audience. Penguin Paperbacks now range from Booker Prize-winning contemporary authors, to mass market bestsellers, with successful history, biography and general non-fiction as well.

Book information

ISBN: 9780141031064
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
Imprint: Penguin Books
Pub date:
DEWEY: 901
DEWEY edition: 22
Language: English
Number of pages: 196
Weight: 160g
Height: 198mm
Width: 130mm
Spine width: 13mm