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Charles Taylor

Sources of the Self: The Making of the Modern Identity

In "Sources of the Self: The Making of the Modern Identity," Charles Taylor, a renowned philosopher, embarks on an intellectual journey to explore the development of the modern identity, focusing on the West. Taylor argues that the modern self is not a given, but rather a product of specific historical and cultural conditions. The book is divided into three parts. The first part, "The Original Context," examines the pre-modern self, its understanding of morality, and its relationship with nature and the divine. Taylor discusses the influence of ancient Greek, Roman, and Christian thought on the shaping of the self. The second part, "The Modern Inventory of Ideas," delves into the emergence of modern identity. Taylor discusses the impact of the Reformation, the Enlightenment, and Romanticism on the self. He argues that the modern self is characterized by a heightened sense of individualism, a belief in the power of reason, and a focus on authenticity. The third part, "The Malaise of Modernity," explores the challenges and crises of modern identity. Taylor discusses the disenchantment of the world, the rise of instrumental reason, and the loss of meaning and purpose. He argues that the modern self is characterized by a sense of inwardness and a constant quest for self-fulfillment. Taylor's book is a masterful work of intellectual history, providing a comprehensive and nuanced account of the development of modern identity. He challenges the reader to think critically about the assumptions and values that underpin modern identity and to consider alternative ways of understanding the self. In conclusion, "Sources of the Self: The Making of the Modern Identity" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of ideas, the development of modern identity, and the challenges of modernity. Taylor's erudite and engaging style makes the book accessible to a wide audience, and his insights are sure to stimulate thought and discussion...