Publisher's Synopsis
The Barbarism of Berlin is a book written by G.K. Chesterton, first published in 1914. The book is a critique of German culture and its role in the outbreak of World War I. Chesterton argues that Germany's militaristic and expansionist policies are the result of a barbaric culture that values power and domination over morality and civilization. He also criticizes German philosophy, literature, and art for promoting a nihilistic worldview that rejects traditional values and celebrates violence and destruction.The book is divided into six chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of German culture and society. Chesterton begins by describing the German obsession with power and the cult of the ""superman"" that has led to the country's aggressive foreign policy. He then examines the German education system, which he sees as promoting conformity and obedience rather than critical thinking and creativity.In subsequent chapters, Chesterton analyzes German literature, philosophy, and art, arguing that they all reflect a nihilistic worldview that glorifies violence and destruction. He also criticizes the German obsession with efficiency and productivity, which he sees as dehumanizing and ultimately destructive.Throughout the book, Chesterton emphasizes the importance of traditional values such as morality, compassion, and respect for human dignity. He argues that these values are essential for a civilized society and that the barbarism of Berlin represents a threat not just to Europe, but to the entire world.Overall, The Barbarism of Berlin is a passionate and thought-provoking critique of German culture and its role in the outbreak of World War I. It remains a valuable historical document and a powerful reminder of the dangers of nationalism, militarism, and totalitarianism.The German Emperor has reproached this country with allying itself with ""barbaric and semi-oriental power."" We have already considered in what sense we use the word barbaric: it is in the sense of one who is hostile to civilisation, not one who is insufficient in it. But when we pass from the idea of the barbaric to the idea of the oriental, the case is even more curious. There is nothing particularly Tartar in Russian affairs, except the fact that Russia expelled the Tartars. The eastern invader occupied and crushed the country for many years; but that is equally true of Greece, of Spain, and even of Austria.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.