I read this while visiting Ed Erickson and other friends at the University of Illinois in Champaign/Urbana during my Xmas break from Grinnell College. It was one of many visits to the U of I made possible by the fact that they were on a quarter system while we were on a semester one.

The book left a profound impression, especially regarding Camus' treatment of the Algerian independence movement, the most prominent topic in this collection. At the time of the book's publication and the author's death, the movement was nearing success. On one hand, I had an almost instinctive approval of any and all anti-colonialist movements. On the other hand, Camus' tortured attempts to justify a continued French presence in the land of his birth were deeply poignant. The associations with Palestine were obvious, and the emotions it engendered in me were complex and confused.

It made me reflect on the difficult choices and moral dilemmas that arise in such situations. Camus' perspective added a layer of nuance to my understanding of the Algerian independence struggle and colonialism in general. This reading experience broadened my视野 and made me more aware of the diverse and often conflicting viewpoints that exist in the realm of history and politics.

In our present geopolitical climate, which is particularly poignant, we have the opportunity to glean valuable lessons from our history.

History serves as a rich tapestry of events, decisions, and consequences that can guide us in navigating the complex web of international relations today.

By studying the past, we can understand the causes and effects of conflicts, the rise and fall of empires, and the impact of political, economic, and social forces.

These lessons can help us make more informed decisions, avoid repeating past mistakes, and build a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Whether it is learning from the mistakes of past wars, understanding the importance of diplomacy and negotiation, or recognizing the value of cultural diversity, history provides us with a wealth of knowledge and wisdom.

In a world that is constantly evolving and facing new challenges, it is essential that we look to our history for guidance and inspiration.

Only by learning from the past can we hope to shape a better future for ourselves and for generations to come.

A collection of 23 essays that Camus considered worthy of being published in English and valuable for anyone seeking hope or inspiration in the dreary world.

During a tough phase of my life, I discovered that reading Camus's work can be like a balm for the mind and beneficial for the heart. So many of the lines are pockets of wisdom. I was especially touched by one: "There are causes worth dying for, but none worth killing for."

The essays are moving, written simply yet beautifully, and they展现了 the deep humanity that underlies Camus's thought and life's work. The topics range from Camus's political writings on the French Resistance, the Algerian situation, the role of the artist in modern society, to writings on the death penalty. His series of letters written to the German state are deeply inspiring and full of humanity. Reading them even now sends shivers down my spine and moves my heart. I can only imagine how powerful they were when published during the Resistance. While Camus writes for liberty and humanity, he is honest and realizes that sometimes struggle is required to preserve those concepts. Camus's work on reporting the Algerian Crisis focuses on his desire to remind all sides of the shared humanity of mankind. He tries to be fair, allocating blame to all sides and mourning the difficulty of a political resolution. Camus acknowledges the brutalities of the French government and the rights of self-determination but also argues that solutions to remove the pied-noir, who have been in Algeria for 100 years, would be deeply inhumane. A particularly moving essay practically pleads with both sides to agree to the principle of preserving innocent lives, a principle that Camus thinks both sides can accept and that could encourage further compromises.

I found Camus's refusal to turn a blind eye to the evils of totalitarianism in communist states particularly inspiring. In hindsight, this may seem obvious, but many intellectuals of the time willingly ignored the atrocities of communist governments because it contradicted their ideologies. Camus's writings stubbornly refuse to give up liberty, even temporarily for the "greater good." He argues that even though concepts of liberty and freedom have been abused by the powerful, that doesn't mean intellectuals should abandon them. Camus ties this liberal view to absurdism, arguing that all of mankind has the right to engage in the search for meaning, even if we recognize that there is no meaning. To take away this right for people to share in this cosmopolitan desire would be wrong.

I also found Camus's essay on the death penalty quite original. Alongside the standard arguments, he contends that people are not deterred by calculations, and even if they were, the modern practice of the death penalty, carried out in private and described with euphemisms, does not align with the goal of terrifying would-be criminals. Camus argues that the death penalty is by its nature disproportionate to murder, a precursor to the so-called death penalty phenomenon later referenced by the European Court of Human Rights. He points out that the victim never has to endure the dread and anticipation of the death penalty. Additionally, Camus argues that the death penalty assumes and represents the State as the ultimate truth in society without admitting that it makes mistakes. While the persuasiveness of the arguments can be debated, I was impressed by the originality and logical coherence of his reasoning.

Camus includes an essay about the role of the artist in society. But I think the selection here, again made by Camus himself, reveals his own beliefs. Camus fulfills his own conception of an artist, reminding others of their shared humanity and the right of all to seek meaning in the cold, indifferent vast universe. Even in the most difficult and charged circumstances, humanity shares a, perhaps silly, striving for meaning that should be celebrated on its own terms.

I got far more out of this than I have from his novels (although I liked those as well). It is truly remarkable how relevant it remains today. Camus presents clear positions on several crucial aspects.

First, he offers a path forward for seemingly permanently severed parties to find a way to forge a new French society after WWII. This was a time of great upheaval and division, and Camus' ideas provided a glimmer of hope for a more unified future.

Second, he delves into the complex issues raised by the struggle for political autonomy in Algeria. The situation there was highly charged and contentious, and Camus' insights shed light on the difficult choices and challenges that faced both sides.

Third, he emphasizes the importance of unfettered free expression in art, political debate, and within society generally. Free expression is the cornerstone of a democratic and open society, and Camus' argument for its protection is as valid today as it was then.

Finally, he takes a stand on the death penalty, challenging the moral and ethical justifications for its use. Camus' views on this issue were controversial at the time, but they continue to spark debate and discussion.

Overall, this work by Camus is a thought-provoking and timely exploration of some of the most pressing issues of our time.

Such clarity and humanity, along with beautifully expressed conviction, truly stand out.

Here's what I would like to convey to George Bush: "There are certain means that simply cannot be excused. In my heart, I long to be able to love my country deeply while still holding onto justice firmly. I don't desire just any form of greatness for it, especially that which is born out of bloodshed and falsehood. What I truly hope for is to keep my country alive by ensuring that justice remains alive and well. Justice is the cornerstone upon which a great and noble nation should be built. It is not about achieving short-term gains through immoral or unethical means. We must strive for a greatness that is based on truth, fairness, and respect for the rights and dignity of all. Only then can we truly say that our country is great and worthy of our love and admiration."

A fascinating book that is easy to read and has several good points. It truly captivated my attention from the very beginning. I was particularly challenged by his essay about the death penalty. Although I disagreed with a significant portion of it, it was still a thought-provoking and challenging piece. It made me question my own beliefs and views on the matter. Camus has a unique way of presenting his ideas that forces the reader to engage and think deeply. I was so impressed by this book that I definitely want to read more by Camus. His writing style is engaging and his ideas are profound. I am excited to explore more of his works and see what other insights and perspectives he has to offer.

I'm not entirely certain as to why this book isn't more widely known or published.

It's truly fascinating to read about Camus the man and the essayist rather than just the novelist. However, I thoroughly enjoy all aspects of his work.

The good essay writing within this book is also making a very strong case for my favorite writing style. It showcases the power and beauty of well-crafted prose, the ability to convey complex ideas and emotions in a clear and engaging manner.

Perhaps it's a matter of timing or simply that it hasn't yet found the right audience. But I believe that with its unique perspective and excellent writing, it has the potential to reach a much wider readership and make a significant impact.

I hope that more people will discover this book and have the opportunity to experience the insights and wisdom that Camus has to offer.

I truly relished the Reflections on the Guillotine chapter. Camus's utilization of both emotional and cerebral argumentation was highly appreciated by me. However, I couldn't concur with his stance regarding Algeria. I found his views on Algerian independence to be rather simplistic and contradictory.

Nonetheless, there were numerous other facets of this book that I did indeed enjoy.

Here are some of my favorite quotes:

"No, I didn't love my country if pointing out what is unjust in what we love amounts to not loving, if insisting that what we love should measure up to the finest image we have of her amounts to not loving."

"None of the evils totalitarianism claims to remedy is worse than totalitarianism itself."

"After all, perhaps the greatness of art lies in the perpetual tension between beauty and pain, the love of men and the madness of creation, unbearable solitude and the exhausting crowd, rejection and consent."

"Great ideas, it has been said, come into the world as gently as doves. Perhaps then, if we listen attentively, we shall hear, amid the uproar of empires and nations, a faint flutter of wings, the gentle stirring of life and hope."

Camus was indeed one of the most prolific thinkers of his era. His profound insights and reflections have withstood the test of time and continue to resonate powerfully even in the present day.

His works offer a wealth of wisdom and inspiration for both political scholars who have dedicated their lives to the study of governance and politics, as well as for novices who are just beginning to explore this complex and fascinating field.

This collection of his thoughts and ideas is an absolute must-have. It provides a comprehensive and in-depth look at Camus' perspectives on various political and social issues, offering valuable lessons and food for thought.

Whether you are seeking to expand your knowledge, gain a new perspective, or simply be inspired by the words of a great thinker, this collection is sure to satisfy. It is a testament to Camus' enduring legacy and his ability to offer insights that are relevant and meaningful in any age.

This slim volume contains much that is worthy of praise.

Although it gathers essays that are more than 50 years old, each one still has relevance to current issues, whether it is the section on Algeria or his Defense of Intelligence.

I was especially fond of The Artist And His Time and frequently paused to reread certain sections.

It is a lovely and essential book from one of my favorite writers.

However, if you only plan to read one of his works, you should choose The Plague.

This volume offers a unique perspective on various topics, and the essays are written with great clarity and depth.

The author's insights are as relevant today as they were when the essays were first written.

Overall, it is a must-read for anyone interested in literature, history, or current affairs.

I was on a quest to discover another rebellion-themed book by Camus, specifically 'The Rebel'. To my surprise, what I found was a collection of essays and thoughts that delved deep into the rebellious nature of humans.

It also included historical accounts of those who opposed authorities and offered some criticism of the governments during Camus' active years.

The book is much more serious and critical in tone, given that it consists of essays and even letters to Camus' colleagues and friends.

One of his quotes that stands out is, 'A man should be absolutely free that his existence is an act of rebellion'. This quote encapsulates the essence of the book and Camus' view on the importance of individual freedom and the act of rebelling against the status quo.

Overall, this book provides a thought-provoking exploration of the concept of rebellion and its significance in human life.

These are several essays penned by Camus, encompassing a wide range of Political, social, and artistic topics.

As I delved into his works, I was able to sense the artistic and noble essence within many of his paragraphs, as exemplified by the excerpts below. However, I found myself loathing his articles regarding Algeria, as I struggled to fathom his perspective. Freedom should be a universal right for all nations, not something to be pursued only when the oppressor is France, for goodness' sake!

* Man is that force which ultimately nullifies all tyrants and gods.

* And we, who claim to be defenders of the spirit, are well aware that the spirit can perish when the force suppressing it becomes overwhelming.

* On the contrary, I have chosen justice to remain true to the world. I still坚信 that this world lacks an ultimate meaning. But I know that something within it holds significance, and that is man, for he is the only being who insists on having one.

* If someone deprives you of your bread, they simultaneously curtail your freedom. But if someone takes away your freedom, you can be certain that your bread is imperiled, as it no longer depends on you and your struggle but on the caprice of a master.

* For it was not a learned professor but a Budapest blacksmith who wrote: "I desire to be regarded as an adult eager to think and capable of thought. I want to be able to express my thoughts without fear and I also wish to be heard."

* And the truth, as I perceive it at least, is that the artist is fumbling his way in the dark, much like the common man - unable to shield himself from the world's misfortunes and passionately yearning for solitude and silence, dreaming of justice, yet being himself a source of injustice; dragged - despite thinking he is in control - behind a chariot that is larger than he.