Ten books helpful to understand 2025

How does one make sense of a period of cultural upheaval informed by the electoral politics of irrationality, hatred and fear auguring a new phase of post-Enlightenment governance? Well, a rational, Enlightenment-informed response is to turn to experts for context and insight.

There have been so many good and relevant studies just in the past 5 years (most recently I read Invisible Rulers, The Structure of Ideas and How to Hide an Empire) but, I am most interested in perspectives from before the 2016 election.

I read or re-read the books listed below in 2024, with no particular goal in mind aside from whatever I found next on the shelf. However, some themes emerged: the history of thought, the development of the U.S. economy and civic institutions, and the challenges of authoritarianism.

The order below is my personal reading chronology, with links to StoryGraph which I am now using in place of Goodreads. (The synopses are edited version of the AI-generated summaries StoryGraph.):

Book Forged in Hell: Spinoza's Scandalous Treatise and the Birth of the Secular Age

Steven Nadler offers a captivating read for anyone fascinated by the intersection of philosophy, history, and politics, particularly those interested in the evolution of modern liberal, secular, and democratic thinking.

The Dream of Enlightenment: The Rise of Modern Philosophy

From Anthony Gottlieb, a captivating read for anyone fascinated by the intersection of science, philosophy, and history, who will be drawn into a sweeping narrative that explores the lives and ideas of the Enlightenment's most influential thinkers and their enduring impact on our modern world.

Anti-Intellectualism in American Life

For readers who crave a captivating exploration of the intricate dynamics between intellect and democracy, Anti-Intellectualism in American Life by Richard Hofstadter offers a rich and complex journey into the heart of the American character, shedding light on the vital role of the intellectual in shaping a society driven by practical success.

The Origins of Totalitarianism

From Hannah Arendt, a deeply unsettling exploration of the darker aspects of human nature, The Origins of Totalitarianism is a must-read, offering a piercing analysis of the warning signs of totalitarianism that will resonate with anyone concerned about the fragility of freedom and the dangers of unchecked power.

The House of Wisdom: How Arabic Science Saved Ancient Knowledge and Gave Us the Renaissance

Jim Al-Khalili offers a captivating read for anyone fascinated by the intersection of science, history, and culture, particularly those interested in the untold stories of Islamic contributions to Western civilization and the spark that ignited the European Renaissance.

Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business

This challenging read from Neil Postman is for anyone fascinated by the intersection of media, politics, and society, who will appreciate Postman's insightful analysis of how entertainment has hijacked our public discourse and will be inspired by his vision for reclaiming our media to serve our highest goals.

Imagined Communities: Reflections on the Origin and Spread of Nationalism

An absorbing read from Benedict Anderson for anyone fascinated by the intricate dance of politics, history, and culture that shapes the complex and often contradictory forces of nationalism, making it a must-read for scholars, historians, and anyone curious about the human experience of community and identity.

A Little History of Economics

From Niall Kishtainy, a perfect fit for curious readers who want to grasp the fundamental ideas and forces that shape our world, offering a clear and accessible primer on economic history and concepts that will leave them informed, engaged, and eager to explore the subject further.

The Metaphysical Club

By Louis Menand, an absorbing and intellectually stimulating read that will captivate readers who appreciate philosophical discussions, American history, and the intersection of ideas, making it a perfect fit for curious and reflective individuals who enjoy exploring the evolution of thought and the power of collective creativity.

And a bonus 10th, from my 2023 reads:

Cod: A Biography of the Fish that Changed the World

Mark Kurlansky offers a fascinating exploration that will captivate readers who appreciate historical narratives, and the interplay of economics and culture. The book delves into the impact of the codfish on global history, including the European colonization of North America, making it an ideal read for thoughtful individuals interested in understanding how a single species can shape societies, economies, and the environment.