10 Books That Screwed Up the World
Summary
10 Books That Screwed Up the World by Benjamin Wiker is a critical examination of influential books throughout history that the author argues have had profoundly negative impacts on society and culture. Wiker identifies and critiques these works for their philosophical, political, and moral ramifications. Here is a summary of the ten books discussed:
The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli:
Wiker criticizes Machiavelli for advocating political manipulation, deceit, and the use of immoral means to achieve and maintain power. He argues that Machiavelli's ideas have corrupted political leaders and practices.
Discourse on Method by René Descartes:
Wiker contends that Descartes' emphasis on radical doubt and the separation of mind and body laid the groundwork for modern skepticism and relativism, undermining traditional philosophical and religious certainties.
Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes:
Hobbes is faulted for promoting a materialistic and mechanistic view of human nature, which Wiker believes justifies authoritarianism and diminishes the value of individual freedoms.
Discourse on the Origin and Basis of Inequality Among Men by Jean-Jacques Rousseau:
Wiker argues that Rousseau's romanticization of the "noble savage" and his critique of civilization have contributed to modern primitivism and the devaluation of social institutions.
Manifesto of the Communist Party by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels:
Marx and Engels are criticized for their revolutionary ideology that Wiker believes led to totalitarian regimes, class warfare, and the suppression of individual rights in the name of equality.
Utilitarianism by John Stuart Mill:
Wiker argues that Mill's utilitarian philosophy, which prioritizes the greatest happiness for the greatest number, undermines moral absolutes and justifies harmful actions if they produce perceived benefits.
The Descent of Man by Charles Darwin:
Darwin is critiqued for extending his theory of evolution to human society, which Wiker believes has been used to justify social Darwinism, eugenics, and the devaluation of human life.
Beyond Good and Evil by Friedrich Nietzsche:
Nietzsche is faulted for rejecting traditional morality and promoting the idea of the "will to power," which Wiker argues has inspired nihilism and the rejection of objective truth.
The State and Revolution by Vladimir Lenin:
Lenin's revolutionary ideas are criticized for leading to the establishment of communist dictatorships that have oppressed millions of people and stifled political and economic freedoms.
The Pivot of Civilization by Margaret Sanger:
Sanger is criticized for her advocacy of birth control and eugenics, which Wiker argues have contributed to the devaluation of human life and the justification of population control measures.
Wiker's book offers a polemical critique of these works, arguing that their ideas have had detrimental effects on modern society. His analysis aims to highlight the dangers of adopting radical philosophies without considering their broader ethical and social implications.
