Suicide of the West: An Essay on the Meaning and Destiny of Liberalism - Softcover

Burnham, James

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1594037833 ISBN 13: 9781594037832

Publisher: Encounter Books, 2014

Synopsis

James Burnham’s 1964 classic, Suicide of the West, remains a startling account on the nature of the modern era. It offers a profound, in depth analysis of what is happening in the world today by putting into focus the intangible, often vague doctrine of American liberalism. It parallels the loosely defined liberal ideology rampant in American government and institutions, with the flow, ebb, growth, climax and the eventual decline and death of both ancient and modern civilizations.

Its author maintains that western suicidal tendencies lie not so much in the lack of resources or military power, but through an erosion of intellectual, moral, and spiritual factors abundant in modern western society and the mainstay of liberal psychology.

Devastating in its relentless dissection of the liberal syndrome, this book will lead many liberals to painful self-examination, buttress the thinking conservative’s viewpoint, and incite others, no doubt, to infuriation. None can ignore it.

About this title

About the Author:

James Burnham has been a noted author, lecturer, editor, and commentator on current affairs. In 1983, Burnham was presented with the Ingersoll Foundation's award for his contributions to the conservative movement, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His books include "The Managerial Revolution, The Struggle for the World, The Machiavellians," and many others. Currently retired, Burnham resides in Connecticut.

Review:

''This somber, brilliantly written book attempts to fix the blame for the suicidal 'contraction of the West' over the last fifty years upon Liberalism, chiefly in the United States . . . It is at the same time a venture into the philosophy of history and an indictment of those responsible for the present disastrous plight of once triumphant Western civilization.'' --National Review

About this edition

• Publisher: Encounter Books
• Publication date: 2014
• ISBN 10: 1594037833
• ISBN 13: 9781594037832
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 400