The SSL ‘Book of the Month’ feature highlights a book in our collection that has been chosen by one of our Subject Consultants. This may be a recent addition to our stock or an existing item that we would like to share with you.
May’s book of the month was selected by John Southall. Bodleian Data Librarian and Subject Consultant for Economics and Sociology.
The Madness of Crowds: Gender, Race and Identity
Murray, Douglas
Bloomsbury Continuum, 2019
Available as an eBook.
Why was it chosen?
It was chosen because of the way it seeks to interrogate the culture wars playing out in social media, universities and online.
Book Overview
We are living through a postmodern era in which the grand narratives of religion and ideology have collapsed. In their place have emerged a crusading desire to right perceived wrongs and a weaponization of identity, both accelerated by the new forms of social censorship and news media. Narrow sets of interests now dominate the agenda as societies becomes more and more tribal.
Readers cannot afford to ignore Murray’s masterfully argued and fiercely provocative book, in which he seeks to inject some perspective into the discussion around this generation’s most complicated issues. He ends with a call for free speech and shared common values.
Reviews
“… an incredibly refreshing read, raising questions that many are likely to have entertained for years but have not been confident in raising in the public forum.” James Tooley – Economic Affairs
“Whether one agrees with him or not, Douglas Murray is one of the most important public intellectuals today.” – Bernard-Henri Lévy
How can I access it?
This title is available as an eBook via SOLO. Oxford University staff and students can access eBooks remotely by logging into SOLO with their SSO. It is also available in hard copy on our shelves at shelfmark HD1216.MUR 2019.
What would your SSL Book of the Month be? Do you have a favourite book in our collection? If so, we would love to know what it is. Add a comment below or email us.