With huge changes in the world, like the collapse of the Soviet empire and the hostility of much of the Muslim world towards the West, understanding the very nature of civilization is more key today than ever. In this, the most monumental study of the history of civilization for several generations, Nicholas Hagger describes them as a response to the spiritual vision of God as Light. This outworking passes into their religions and expresses itself in culture, particularly in buildings. They decline through progressively secularizing stages when their central idea of the Light is lost. Cathedrals, temples, mosques, the "stones", eventually become tourist attractions, like the Pyramids and Stonehenge, as their original meaning diminishes. Unlike Gibbon, Spengler and Toynbee, Hagger focuses on the genesis of civilizations rather than their decline. But he also offers some pointers to the future. The metaphysical vision in our time is being revived, and it could lead to the culminating stage of Western civilization; that of a world government.

About the Author
Nicholas Hagger has lectured at the University of Baghdad in Iraq and the University of Libya, and been Professor of English at Tokyo University and Keio Universities in Japan. He has spent twenty-five years researching for this book. Amongst his other works are The Secret History of the West and The Syndicate (both O Books).

Reviews
'An extraordinary book.' David Gascoyne 'How much William James would have supported all those who value the quality and range of a truly comprehensive modern awareness as Nicholas Hagger does.' Sir Laurens van der Post 'I'm sure you've seen a genuine historical pattern and law.' Ted Hughes



Book Information
ISBN 9781905047635
Author Nicholas Hagger
Format Paperback
Page Count 672
Imprint John Hunt Publishing
Publisher Collective Ink
Weight(grams) 902g
Dimensions(mm) 239mm * 154mm * 45mm