Raymond Aron was a French philosopher, sociologist, journalist, and political scientist whose work critically examined the influence of intellectual thought on political ideologies. He is renowned for his seminal book, 'The Opium of the Intellectuals,' where he analyzed how Marxism in post-war France swayed intellectuals towards defending oppressive regimes while overlooking the flaws of capitalism and democracy. Aron's writing is characterized by its sharp analysis and rational approach to complex social and political phenomena. His extensive writings across various topics solidified his position as a significant voice in 20th-century intellectual discourse.
In this important work, the most prominent French liberal intellectual of the Cold War era presents his views on the core values of liberal democracy: liberty and equality. At the same time, he provides an ideal introduction to key aspects of his thought
The book offers a profound re-evaluation of Carl von Clausewitz, highlighting him not just as a military strategist but as a significant political philosopher. Professor Raymond Aron, a prominent French social scientist, explores Clausewitz's influence on various aspects of contemporary society, emphasizing his enduring relevance in understanding the interplay between war and politics. This edition, first published in 1983, invites readers to reconsider Clausewitz's contributions beyond traditional military studies.
Squadron Leader Ron Raymond describes the twilight years of heavy-piston engine bomber flying (Lincoln 30 and 31s/WW2 Lancaster Mark 4s) at a time of long-range navigation by deduced (dead) reckoning, air plots and sextant sights. While navigation called for skills unique to the role of No 10 Squadron’s heavy bomber operations, the physical aircraft handling was conducted in accordance with rudimentary concepts – certainly in the event of an engine failure. The story initially deals with preparation of an RAAF pilot qualifying in a bomber role and continues on to describe duty as a flight instructor before ferrying aircraft from Canada for tactical air operations in Viet Nam and Papua New Guinea (PNG). Vietnamese operations were under control of the USAF and involved general support of forces ‘in the field’ by day and flare support for outposts under attack at night. Ron was awarded Mention in Despatches and a US Air Medal in Viet Nam, and a Queen’s Commendation in PNG. He returned to an air staff appointment before his final role as the Chief Flying Instructor at the RAAF Basic Flying Training School.
Engaging deeply with the essence of modernity, this two-volume study explores the sociological tradition through the lens of key social thinkers from the eighteenth century to the present. Aron's meticulous examination not only reconstructs their arguments but also addresses the ongoing influence of modernity on contemporary experiences. His work stands as a definitive analysis, offering insights into the foundational ideas that continue to shape our understanding of society and its evolution.
This is the first part of Raymond Aron's landmark two-volume study of the sociological tradition¿arguably the definitive work of its kind. More than a work of reconstruction, Aron's study is, at its deepest level, an engagement with the very question of modernity: How did the intellectual currents which emerged in the eighteenth century shape the modern political and philosophical order? With scrupulous fairness, Aron examines the thought and arguments of the major social thinkers to discern how they answered this question. Volume One explores three traditions: the French liberal school of political sociology, represented by Montesquieu and Tocqueville; the Comtean tradition, anticipating Durkheim in its elevation of social unity and consensus; and the Marxists, who posited the struggle between classes and placed their faith in historical necessity. In his customary clear and penetrating prose, Aron argues that each of these schools offers its own theory of the diversity of societies and that ¿each is inspired both by moral convictions and by scientific hypotheses.¿ This Routledge Classics edition includes an introduction by Daniel J. Mahoney and Brian C. Anderson.
Grounded in Raymond Aron's realist philosophy, the book explores the complexities of the Imperial Republic, engaging with themes of moralism, revisionism, and imperialism indirectly. It delves into the nuanced political landscape, examining how these concepts influence the Republic's identity and actions without taking a definitive stance. The analysis invites readers to consider the implications of these philosophical debates on contemporary governance and international relations.
Bigfoot is Real... and quickly becoming a part of American Culture. This is the only approved government text (recently declassified) on understanding/controlling the Bigfoot creature. Learn how it all started and why this manual is a mandatory read. Learn new facts connected with the scientific validation of classic Bigfoot stories. Gain a complete understanding from recent studies conducted at a secure state-of-the-art natural habitat facility created specifically for Bigfoot. Find out about the BF Crippler, a powerful tool for teaching/controlling. Find out about the BF Juggernaut, a high-tech military transportation vehicle designed to obtain and transport the legendary creature. Find out what the government expects - and demands- of you in this pursuit for security and harmony between man and beast.
The book explores Charles de Gaulle's complex relationship with the Middle East, particularly his attitudes and policies toward Israel. It raises critical questions regarding his potential anti-Semitism and examines how his views influenced his broader international relations strategy. Through this analysis, the author delves into the intricate dynamics of de Gaulle's foreign policy and its implications for the region.
Raymond Aron's 1955 masterpiece The Opium of the Intellectuals, is one of the great works of twentieth- century political reflection. Aron shows how noble ideas can slide into the tyranny of "secular religion" and emphasizes how political thought has the profound responsibility of telling the truth about social and political reality-in all its mundane imperfections and tragic complexities.Aron explodes the three "myths" of radical thought: the Left, the Revolution, and the Proletariat. Each of these ideas, Aron shows, are ideological, mystifying rather than illuminating. He also provides a fascinating sociology of intellectual life and a powerful critique of historical determinism in the classically restrained prose for which he is justly famous.For this new edition, prepared by Daniel J. Mahoney and Brian C. Anderson as part of Transaction's ongoing "Aron Project," political scientist Harvey Mansfield provides a luminous introduction that underscores the permanent relevance of Aron's work. The new edition also includes as an appendix "Fanaticism, Prudence, and Faith," a remarkable essay that Aron wrote to defend Opium from its critics and to explain further his view of the proper role of political thinking. The book will be of interest to all students of political theory, history, and sociology.
