Outcasts and Heretics: Profiles in Independent Thought and Courage - Hardcover

Sharpes, Donald K.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0739123173 ISBN 13: 9780739123171

Publisher: Lexington Books, 2007

Synopsis

Outcasts and Heretics is a historical survey of independent thought in action. Divided into two sections, "Modern Outcasts" and "The Legacy of Religious Heresy and Dissent", professor emeritus Donald K. Sharpes traces common themes between courageous historical individuals. Often looking at individuals in the context of religion, Sharpes paints profiles of individuals who stood up against oppressing forces and overwhelming odds. Offering numerous profiles of varying lengths, the selection ranges from such well-known 20th century figures as Gandhi to esoteric historical figures, such as John Leo. Outcasts and Heretics is an inspiring book for all readers.

About this title

About the Author:

Donald K. Sharpes is professor emeritus at Arizona State University.

Review:

Professor Sharpes' extensive scholarly research blends the historical with the contemporary in a most relevant work and in marvelously accessible prose. Have you been holding out for a real hero or heroine to admire or emulate? Wait no more. This is a must read for those looking to better understand past and present heroes, heroines or heretics. (Julia Nishibata, Doshisha University)

This book is an important read; it reminds us that pressure to conform can require heroic independence, and that such heroism has existed throughout history. (Gary Greif, University of Wisconsin, Green Bay)

This is a brilliantly conceived and executed book, one so needed in our times. Sharpes details the lives of those rare courageous individuals who dared to oppose the pressures to conform in their era and to think the thoughts that shaped the world. The book is uplifting and sobering at the same time. It demonstrates the power of individuals, while it reminds us how rare those courageous individuals are. From Gandhi to Biko, from Roger Williams to Red Cloud, Outcasts and Heretics is an encyclopediaof the great lives that have truly changed the world for the better. This is a book to keep close at hand and sample every day... (Gene Glass, Arizona State University)

Outcasts and Heretics is a deeply thoughtful and profound examination of fascinating individuals. As a biologist, I was especially taken with Dr. Sharpes' unique and brilliant analysis of Charles Darwin's contributions. His treatment adds immeasurably to our understanding of the challenges faced by many of history's most vital participants. (Sam Zeveloff, Weber State University)

This is a brilliantly conceived and executed book, one so needed in our times. Sharpes details the lives of those rare courageousindividuals who dared to oppose the pressures to conform in their era and to think the thoughts that shaped the world. The book is uplifting and sobering at the same time. It demonstrates the power of individuals, while it reminds us how rare those courageous individuals are. From Gandhi to Biko, from Roger Williams to Red Cloud, Outcasts and Heretics is an encyclopedia of the great lives that have truly changed the world for the better. This is a book to keep close at hand and sample every day. (Gene Glass, Arizona State University)

About this edition

• Publisher: Lexington Books
• Publication date: 2007
• ISBN 10: 0739123173
• ISBN 13: 9780739123171
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 366