Matthew B. Crawford is a contemporary author whose work delves into the nature of labor and freedom in modern society. His reflections often draw from his own hands-on experiences, offering a unique perspective on the relationship between intellectual and manual work. Crawford's writing is characterized by deep contemplation and lucid argumentation, prompting readers to consider the value and meaning of our daily endeavors.
In this beautifully illustrated book, Matthew Crawford offers a comprehensive guide to the gladiolus, from its history to its cultivation. This book is a must-read for green thumbs and flower enthusiasts alike.
Focusing on the needs of novice gladiolus enthusiasts, this book offers straightforward guidance on understanding and cultivating these flowers. Written in accessible language, it avoids technical jargon, making it ideal for beginners while still considering the interests of amateur growers. Although it is oriented towards commercial cultivation, the instructions are equally applicable to small gardens, ensuring that both aspiring and experienced gardeners can benefit from its practical advice.
The book is recognized as a significant work in human history, prompting efforts to preserve it for future generations. By republishing it in a modern format, the aim is to ensure its continued relevance and accessibility, allowing both present and future readers to engage with its important themes and insights.
From the author of the landmark "Shop Class as Soulcraft," a brilliant, first-of-its-kind celebration of driving as a unique pathway of human freedom, one now critically threatened by automation. Once we were drivers, the open road alive with autonomy, adventure, danger, trust, and speed. Today we are as likely to be in the back seat of an Uber as behind the wheel ourselves. Tech giants are hurling us toward a shiny, happy self-driving future, selling utopia but equally keen to advertise to a captive audience strapped into another expensive device. Are we destined, then, to become passengers, not drivers? "Why We Drive" reveals that much more may be at stake than we might think. Ten years ago, in the New York Times-bestselling "Shop Class as Soulcraft," philosopher-mechanic Matthew B. Crawford -- a University of Chicago PhD who owned his own motorcycle shop -- made a revolutionary case for manual labor, one that ran headlong against the pretensions of white-collar office work. Now, using driving as a window through which to view the broader changes wrought by technology on all aspects of contemporary life, Crawford investigates the driver's seat as one of the few remaining domains of skill, exploration, play -- and freedom. Blending philosophy and hands-on storytelling, Crawford grounds the narrative in his own experience in the garage and behind the wheel, recounting his decade-long restoration of a vintage Volkswagen as well as his journeys to thriving automotive subcultures across the country. Crawford leads us on an irreverent but deeply considered inquiry into the power of faceless bureaucracies, the importance of questioning mindless rules, and the battle for democratic self-determination against the surveillance capitalists. A meditation on the competence of ordinary people, "Why We Drive" explores the genius of our everyday practices on the road, the rewards of 'folk engineering', and the existential value of occasionally being scared shitless. Witty and ingenious throughout, "Why We Drive" is a rebellious and daring celebration of the irrepressible human spirit
On Becoming an Individual in an Age of Distraction
Exploring the challenge of mastering one's own mind, this follow-up to a bestselling work delves into the importance of mental competence in today's world. Matthew B. Crawford examines the complexities of attention and awareness, addressing how modern distractions impact our ability to engage meaningfully with our surroundings. This thought-provoking book highlights the urgent need for individuals to cultivate mental mastery in an increasingly chaotic environment.
"Crawford investigates the challenge of mastering one's own mind by showing that our current crisis of attention is only superficially the result of digital technology, and certain assumptions at the root of Western culture are the root of the cause"--Publisher information.
Why do some jobs offer fulfilment while others leave us frustrated? In this inspiring and persuasive book, Matthew Crawford brings to life the immense psychological and intellectual satisfactions of making and fixing things, arguing that the skilled manual trades may be one of the few sure paths to a good living.
In this wise and often funny book, a philosopher/mechanic systematically destroys the pretensions of the high-prestige workplace and makes an irresistible case for working with one's hands.
A philosopher and mechanic extolls the virtues of manual labor, describing how the satisfactions and challenges of creating with one's own hands promotes a sense of connection to life that office work suppresses.