Bernanos: His Political Thought and Prophecy
- 232 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Thomas Molnar was a Catholic philosopher, historian, and political theorist whose extensive body of work, comprising over forty books in French and English, delved into subjects of religion, politics, and education. His thought was influenced by the writings of Russell Kirk, and Molnar himself was a contributor to National Review magazine. He explored conservative values and French intellectual traditions, critically examining what he perceived as a decline in traditional principles. Molnar's intellectual legacy lies in his profound explorations of social and philosophical issues that continue to resonate.






Exploring seven fundamental themes of Western philosophy, the book traces their origins and evolution from early systematic thought to contemporary interpretations. It delves into how these archetypes have shaped philosophical discourse across different civilizations and eras. By examining the progression of these ideas, the author offers insights into their lasting impact on modern philosophical inquiry.
The book explores the evolution of ideological warfare against authority, particularly within higher education, tracing its roots from the 1960s through the 1990s. It examines how various movements challenged traditional power structures and the impact of these conflicts on academic institutions. The narrative delves into the cultural and political dynamics at play, highlighting key figures and events that shaped this ongoing struggle for intellectual freedom and social justice.
Focusing on the intellectual class, Thomas Molnar offers a profound critique that examines its decline and the implications for society. He explores the historical and cultural factors contributing to this phenomenon, challenging the roles and responsibilities of intellectuals in shaping public discourse. Through his analysis, Molnar raises questions about the relevance and impact of intellectuals in contemporary life, making a compelling case for reevaluating their influence on culture and politics.
The book explores the historical connection between philosophy and common sense, tracing its roots from pre-Socratic thinkers to modern philosophers. It highlights how the rise of physical sciences and psychology has distanced philosophical discourse from ordinary language, leading to confusion among learners. Thomas Molnar critiques this trend, suggesting that many contemporary philosophers engage in trivial language games rather than genuine philosophical inquiry. This work aims to reconnect philosophy with human realities, appealing to philosophers, cultural historians, and sociologists.
The author selected here seven basic themes of western philosophical speculation as they appeared from the earliest times of systematic thought and have run through the centuries and civilizations to the present. Some of the themes are the origin and its reflection , the guilt of being , the one and the multiple , the temptation of mechanization, nocturnal man , etc.The book is neither a chronological treatment of issues nor does it present a list of philosophical schools and movements. It reaches rather for the «archetypes» of philosophical thinking.