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Voltaire's Bastards
656 pages, 1993
The following are some voices from Voices of a People's History of the United States (Howard Zinn and Anthony Arnove, eds.), arranged in twenty-four chapters paralleling Howard Zinn’s A People’s History of the United States: Frederick Douglass, George Jackson, Chief Joseph, Martin Luther King Jr., Plough Jogger, Sacco and Vanzetti, Patti Smith, Bruce Springsteen, Mark Twain, and Malcolm X.
In Voltaire's Bastards, John Ralston Saul explores the idea that reason, which was once a tool for enlightenment, has been distorted into a form of unaccountable authority. He encourages readers to question this authority and not accept everything at face value.
Saul digs into the role of elites in society. He argues that they have become disconnected from the realities of the people they govern, leading to a lack of empathy and understanding. This is a call to action for readers to challenge this disconnect and strive for a more inclusive society.
The author warns about the dangers of over-specialization. He believes that it can lead to a narrow perspective and hinder our ability to think critically and creatively. So, take a step back, broaden your horizons and don't be afraid to explore outside your comfort zone.
John Ralston Saul emphasizes the importance of balance in society. He suggests that an over-reliance on reason can lead to imbalance, and that we should also value intuition, creativity, and morality. This is a great reminder to find balance in our own lives as well.
In Voltaire's Bastards, Saul calls for a change in our approach to leadership and decision-making. He encourages us to move away from a purely rational approach and to incorporate more empathy, creativity, and morality. This is a powerful message for anyone looking to make a positive impact in their community or organization.
