Ivan Illich In Conversation: A Dialogue with the Radical Thinker

Ivan Illich (1926-2002) was a renowned philosopher, theologian, and social critic whose groundbreaking ideas challenged the foundations of modern society. He was a prolific writer and lecturer, and his work continues to inspire and provoke debate today.

Ivan Illich in Conversation: The Testament of Ivan Illich

by Sondra Perl

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	673 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	275 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Ivan Illich In Conversation brings together a collection of in-depth interviews with Illich, providing a unique opportunity to engage with his thought-provoking ideas and insights. Through these conversations, we gain a deeper understanding of his critique of modern institutions, his alternative visions for education, technology, and medicine, and his call for a more just and sustainable world.

Chapter 1: The Institutionalization of Society

Illich's analysis of modern society begins with a critique of the institutionalization of every aspect of human life. He argues that institutions, such as schools, hospitals, and prisons, have become control mechanisms that stifle individual freedom and creativity.

"Institutions are like nets," Illich says. "They catch people and hold them in place. They create a false sense of security and belonging, but they also prevent people from developing their own unique potential."

Chapter 2: The Myth of Progress

Illich's critique extends to the modern belief in progress. He argues that the relentless pursuit of economic growth and technological advancement has led to a loss of human meaning and connection.

"Progress is a lie," he says. "It's an illusion that keeps us running in place. True progress is about improving the quality of human life, not just increasing our material wealth."

Chapter 3: Alternative Visions for Education

One of Illich's most famous works is Deschooling Society, in which he calls for a radical transformation of the educational system. He argues that schools are not effective at teaching children the skills they need to thrive in the real world.

"Schools are prisons for the mind," he says. "They crush creativity and discourage independent thinking. We need to create learning environments that are based on freedom and dialogue."

Chapter 4: The Limits of Technology

Illich was also a vocal critic of technology. He argued that our reliance on technology has led to a loss of human agency and autonomy.

"Technology is a double-edged sword," he says. "It can be used to solve problems, but it can also be used to control people. We need to be mindful of the potential dangers of technology and use it wisely."

Chapter 5: A Call for a More Just and Sustainable World

Illich's ultimate goal was to create a more just and sustainable world. He believed that this could be achieved through a combination of personal transformation and social change.

"We need to reject the values of consumerism and competition," he says. "We need to live more simply and in harmony with nature. And we need to work together to create a more just and equitable world."

Ivan Illich was a visionary thinker whose ideas continue to challenge and inspire us to this day. Ivan Illich In Conversation provides a unique opportunity to engage with his thought-provoking ideas and insights, and to explore his alternative visions for a more just and sustainable world.

Whether you are a longtime admirer of Illich or a newcomer to his work, this book is sure to challenge your assumptions and open your mind to new possibilities.

Ivan Illich in Conversation: The Testament of Ivan Illich

by Sondra Perl

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	673 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	275 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE