The Reactionary Mind

Publisher's Summary

In The Reactionary Mind, Robin traces conservatism back to its roots in the reaction against the French Revolution. He argues that the right was inspired, and is still united, by its hostility to emancipating the lower orders. Some conservatives endorse the free market; others oppose it. Some criticize the state; others celebrate it. Underlying these differences is the impulse to defend power and privilege against movements demanding freedom and equality - while simultaneously making populist appeals to the masses. Despite their opposition to these movements, conservatives favor a dynamic conception of politics and society - one that involves self-transformation, violence, and war. They are also highly adaptive to new challenges and circumstances. This partiality to violence and capacity for reinvention have been critical to their success.

©2011 Oxford University Press, Inc. (P)2018 Tantor

Critic Reviews

"The Reactionary Mind has emerged as one of the more influential political works of the last decade." (Washington Monthly)

Interesting and informative book, but narrators voice is difficult to listen to

The content of the book is excellent and very well reviewed elsewhere. While the narrators cadence is fluent, there is what I can best describe as an hysterical edge to his voice, almost as if he is screaming. It is very difficult and rather riding to listen to for more than a few minutes. I gave up on the audio book after three chapters and bought and read the physical book.

4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Updated in 2016/17, but already far our of date.

the pace at which things have changed in the last two years render this book moot as an insight into modern conservatism. but it is interesting to learn its history.