History of Contemporary Ideas

The Process of Secularization from the Renaissance to the 21st Century

“Understanding the intellectual origins of cultural movements undoubtedly helps make a serene and balanced analysis of the world around us.”

— From the Introduction

Beginning with the Renaissance, Mariano Fazio presents an interdisciplinary examination of the literature, philosophies, and political theories that influence our contemporary world, with a prime focus on tracing the process of secularization within historical and cultural movements.  His exposition discusses the Enlightenment, liberalism, nationalism, scientism, nihilism, feminism, and other movements that have shaped current thinking.

History of Contemporary Ideas was first published in Italy as a textbook for students of the Faculty of Institutional Communication of the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross.  It is well suited for use in seminary and college classes and will also appeal to those interested in the intellectual roots of contemporary culture.