Author: Sarah Bakewell
Overview: "Humanly Possible: Seven Hundred Years of Humanist Freethinking, Inquiry, and Hope" is a bestseller that has captured the attention of readers and critics alike. Lauded by The New York Times and named one of Barack Obama's Favorite Books of 2023, this work is an exploration of humanism—a philosophy that emphasizes shared humanity, moral responsibility, and the importance of freethinking.
This book weaves together the stories of remarkable writers, thinkers, scientists, and artists from the last seven centuries, each contributing uniquely to our understanding of humanism. Bakewell makes the subject matter not just engaging but also profoundly relatable and inspiring. She adeptly links philosophical reflections with vibrant anecdotes, making the content enjoyable and digestible for a wide range of readers.
In "Humanly Possible," Bakewell voyages from the literary enthusiasts of the fourteenth century to contemporary secular thinkers, exploring figures such as Voltaire and Zora Neale Hurston. This sweeping history illustrates the diverse manifestations of humanism, revealing how some advocates promoted scientific reasoning, while others focused on moral living or cultural studies.
The book is a call to care for one another, reminding us that, despite our differences, we are all part of a shared narrative. Bakewell emphasizes the resilience of humanistic principles, even in the face of opposition from fanatics and tyrants.
"Humanly Possible" is not just an academic history; it is an enriching and enlightening read that sheds light on a vital tradition. This exploration of hope, inquiry, and humanity invites each reader to reflect on their own existence and the values that shape our world today.
