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The Uses of Pessimism

And the Danger of False Hope
by Roger Scruton
The Uses of Pessimism: And the Danger of False Hope. Oxford Univ. Oct. 2010. c.240p. ISBN 9780199747535. $29.95. PHIL
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Conservative British philosopher Scruton (senior research fellow, Oxford Univ.; Beauty) here examines the use of pessimism for countering what he views as the "false hopes" of political and religious utopian and optimistic ideas. He argues that whether these theories are political, religious, or philosophical, they share similar characteristics of trying to fit the world into unreal and hopeless theories that are meant to improve humanity. But the theories contain blatant fallacies that their proponents overlook. Scruton explains that a cautious pessimism using reason and rationality can bring us back from the future-focused theories of the self-deceived idealist to the present, where, as a society, we use compromise and cooperation to create a civil society in an imperfect world.
VERDICT While some of Scruton's conclusions may be controversial, especially regarding sexuality and modern-day Islam, he does present an intriguing case for using pessimism as a way to examine issues that affect current society. His clear and accessible writing will appeal to those familiar with the author's past works and also those with an interest in philosophy.
Reviewed by Scott Duimstra, Capital Area Dist. Lib., Lansing, MIX , Sep 15, 2010
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