J. W. Burrow Books
John Burrow was a leading English historian of intellectual history. His work pioneered a more sophisticated approach to the history of social sciences, one that did not view the past solely as anticipation of the present. Burrow's scholarship primarily focused on the Whig interpretation of history and historiography more broadly. His incisive analyses and demanding style left an indelible mark on the field.




Focusing on three pivotal crises in English history, the book explores their profound impact on Victorian society. It delves into how these events shaped cultural, social, and political landscapes, influencing the values and beliefs of the era. By examining the responses of Victorians to these crises, the author highlights the interplay between historical events and societal development, revealing the lasting significance of these moments in shaping modern England.
The crisis of reason : European thought, 1848-1914
- 240 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Burrow examines the impact of science and social thought on European intellectual life prior to World War I. He considers ideas in physics, social evolution and social Darwinism, and anxieties about modernity and personal identity.