Discriminations - by A C Grayling (Paperback)

About the Book

"It seems like we can't talk about anything nowadays... Whether it's war or something utterly inconsequential, the internet is primed for furore. And the results can be horrifying - from online pile-ons and doxing to job loss and, in some cases, death. But how did we end up here? Nuanced and historically grounded, A. C. Grayling searches for middle ground in an otherwise incendiary debate. Looking at the history of cancellation, from Ancient Greek 'ostracism' through hemlock cups, witch trials and the House of Un-American Activities, Discriminations is a timely examination of the state of our public culture and the chilling effect it's having on intellectual discourse."--

Book Synopsis

World-renowned philosopher A. C. Grayling explores the messy politics of the 'culture wars'

It seems like we can't talk about anything nowadays... Whether it's war or something utterly inconsequential, the internet is primed for furore. And the results can be horrifying - from online pile-ons and doxing to job loss and, in some cases, death. But how did we end up here?

Nuanced and historically grounded, A. C. Grayling searches for middle ground in an otherwise incendiary debate. Looking at the history of cancellation, from Ancient Greek 'ostracism' through hemlock cups, witch trials and the House of Un-American Activities, Discriminations is a timely examination of the state of our public culture and the chilling effect it's having on intellectual discourse.

Review Quotes

'Filled with thoughtful analysis, deep reflection, and fascinating historical detail, Discriminations argues the differences between leftist moderates and "woke activists" centrally concern means rather than ends.' --The Conversation

'His prose is crisp. His arguments, compelling. I learned from his book to treasure the Enlightenment's belief in liberty and equality as inherent human rights.' --Good Reading Magazine

About the Author

A. C. Grayling is the Founder and Principal of the New College of the Humanities at Northeastern University, London, and its Professor of Philosophy. Among his many books are The God Argument, Democracy and Its Crisis and The History of Philosophy. He has been a regular contributor to The Times, Guardian, Financial Times, Independent and Economist. He has appeared on radio and TV, including BBC's Today programme and Newsnight, and CNN News.